We have been working with a group of youngsters all week, introducing them to the arts of music, art and drama. They have been immersed in activities which stretch their imagination; things they thought they could never do; and they’ve learned to try new things without being afraid. We read from the original L. Frank Baum “Oz” book; painted tee shirts, made art of things from nature, drew self-portraits; saw the beauty of nature from an artist’s perspective; learned new songs; discovered how to put movement to music; and created a play which tells the story of “The Wizard of Oz.”

The main lesson of this story is that we have the ability within us to do things we thought couldn’t. Great lessons for kids – wise thoughts for adults .

The Cowardly Lion is one of my favorite characters because I can totally relate to him. He was afraid of his own shadow, but found that the courage he longed for was there all the time. The moral of this story is that the things we fear the most can be conquered. We all possess the ability.

When we struggle through life, thinking we are limited – when we try to make sense of the challenges thrown in our path – when we can’t find our way – when we feel insignificant – we are putting ourselves into a box that we may never get out of.

As we grow up, we soon discover that courage doesn’t come from ourselves, but from the one who created us. He knew us before we existed. What a wonderful source of confidence building that is.

Courage is built into us, along with intelligence and compassion. Those things are right there within us – created by the Almighty God who loves us. With Him all things are possible.

This has been a whirlwind of activity for a couple of 72 year olds, but the vibrancy that comes from being with young people is exhilarating. Thankfully we have a young music instructor who brings her enthusiasm to the table, along with a couple of teen helpers. It’s been a shot in the arm for me, but I’m sure I will sleep hard and long tonight.