This week I’ve been sharing some books that have helped shape me in one way or another. So far, I’ve shared some books on theology. But today I thought it would be fitting to share one of my favorite books as a kid. One that taught me some important life lessons.
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.
You’d think I would have learned to be a more adventurous eater by reading this book. But sadly, I’m not. I’m actually quite picky. But there were some other lessons I gleaned from this classic that have stuck with me.
Persistence Pays Off : I have plenty of faults but one thing I am is relentless. Like Chumbawamba sang, “I get knocked down but I get up again.” That may be the story of my life. Sam, or Sam I am, was a pretty tenacious character who would not give up. That’s a great lesson for kids…and adults.
Bad Attitudes Suck : The grumpy grown-up character wastes so much time with his “poopy-butt attitude” (that’s how we say it in mi casa). As a kid I knew I didn’t want to be THAT guy. I’m convinced that attitude is a choice we all make. Props to Dr. Seuss for showing me that.
Keep it Simple : The imagry, the rhythm, the word choice. All of it comes together in this memorable and popular short story. I later discovered that this book came about as a dare from Seuss’ editor. He challenged Seuss to write a book using less than 50 words. The result: a timeless classic. It just goes to show you what brevity, clarity, and creativity can do. It’s a good lesson for me today and something I am working to improve on with the help of other great books like Made to Stick.
I’m happy to continue the legacy Green Eggs and Ham by reading it to my kids. Maybe they’ll take away similar lessons. Or perhaps they will just remember how nerdy their dad was as he tried to sound cool by reading it like Jesse Jackson on Saturday Night Live. Either way, it’s had an influence on me and countless others.
Thanks Dr. Seuss.
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