Create a Ripple Effect of Goodness with Your Kids

I'll bet at some point you've thrown a rock into a pond and watched the ripples extend further and further out as a result of your casual toss. I've been thinking a lot about that metaphor this month. 
We never know which action of ours is going to have a ripple effect to touch someone else's ideas and actions, which in turn spark someone else.

Have you ever heard of Savonarola? Probably not. He was a monk and a fiery preacher during the Renaissance  who influenced Michelangelo. It is said Michelangelo heard his voice in his head while painting the Sistine Chapel.  What about Giuliano della Rovere? Ever heard of him? Thought not. He became Pope Julius II, who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel. Because Michelangelo was a sculptor, it was definitely out of his comfort zone to paint a huge fresco. But the pope influenced him to do it…and we are the recipients of Michelangelo's willingness to change direction.
People and their stories matter. Yours. Your child's. And God can use each one to reveal a little bit more of His kingdom. He can use each one to add beauty to the world. And their stories just might spark new ideas and inspirations in Storygalorey students.

One of the inspiring influences for this semester’s art was one a Storygalorey student who has a giving heart. Last summer, she painted two rocks-one with my face on it, and one with my co-teacher's. I love it! That gave me an idea…what if this semester, I introduced each special person we were learning about in in person classes with a painted rock portrait? Her gift inspired me. 

Our words and actions can spark new ideas that leave a ripple effect we may never see. 

Why not do the same thing? Have your child write an encouraging note, paint a picture (or a rock!) and give it to someone they know. You may never know what ripple effect that act of kindness may have. (I used these paint pens.)

Here's a little book to inspire rock painting: Only One You by Linda Kranz.

I see you right now, moms and grandmas. You are impacting the next generation. Your attention, your celebrations, your moments listening to them...a casual interaction, an offhand encouraging word--all of those are helping shape them into impactful, generous, kind, encouraging adults. We can't see this side of heaven which impacts are "big" and which impacts are "small." But your work has a good ripple effect far, far into the future, and so does your child's. Be encouraged! 

Enriching kids' lives through stories and art,

Jennifer

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