You Are Special

You Are Special written by Max Lucado, illustrated by Sergio Martinez

This is not a new book, and it certainly isn't a hidden treasure. I think most people know about these books. Especially religious people. Especially, especially, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints because of the strong tie the author's work has to certain eternal truths. I clearly recall my mom reading this book to me, even though I had been reading on my own for years and years. I think I may have been 12 years old? I don't know exactly why she did that. I have my suspicions though.

I read this book to Leah for the first time today. I thought the message would be a little over her head, but I've really been wanting to instill this idea in her that she is a Child of God, she is unique, and she is worth so much. I want her to grow up with the idea. I want it to be old hat for her. I want her to be 14 years old (my least favorite age EVER) and know that she is incredible. I want Leah to know this so deeply that the idea is normal to her.

So I'm reading the book to her during lunch. I get to page 25 where book says:

Eli stooped down and picked him up and set him on the bench. "Hmm," the maker spoke thoughtfully as he looked at the gray dots. "Looks like you've been given some bad marks."
"I didn't mean to, Eli. I really tried hard."
"Oh, you don't have to defend yourself to me, child. I don't care what the other Wemmicks think."
"You don't?"
"No, and you shouldn't either. Who are they to give stars or dots? They're Wemmicks just like you. What they think doesn't matter, Punchinello. All that matters is what I think. And I think you are pretty special."

Leah stopped me at this point and said, "Mom, isn't that like Heavenly Father?"
I could hardly contain myself, "Exactly! That's exactly like Heavenly Father."

She' on her way.