WILD THINGS

Dinner conversation last night somehow led to the possibility of taking the two two year olds to see Where the Wild Things Are. And since RC has never read the book, I dug into my hope chest and found an old copy given to me December 23, 1997. My mom always gives us books for Christmas typically a children's book with an adult message. This was no different. After her bath, I sat with BB and turned the yellow pages. The first read:

Dearest Grace-
I walked into Barnes&Noble to find "Mattie's Hats" and walked straight to this book. As you read it, I know you will find the deeper meaning that is meant for you to know....and understand. As you search through life, I will be hear waiting...you are not mine, but I am yours forever.
All my love, Mom

And as tears welled up in my eyes, I couldn't help but think about how all of us have been to where the wild things are. And that someday BB will board her private boat and visit this place too. She will leave me as I left my mother in search of adventure and a life all her own. She will be king of the wild things and hopefully someday come back to me.

The deeper message is that we all "leave" one thing or another. Perhaps we separate from a friend for a while or go in search of a better job or move to another city. At some point in life, I think we all take a step out of our comfort zone, take a step towards the unknown, take a step towards change. We LET THE WILD RUMPUS START!

The beauty of this tale is in the end Max leaves the wild things and sails home. We all have that choice. We can all go into the depths of our hearts and search for what will make us "go home" which to me simply means letting go. Let go of the things that make you roar your terrible roars and gnash your terrible teeth. Let go of what holds you back. Step away from yourself and make a change. DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT! Call the friend you miss, forgive someone, take your neighbor an apple pie. It's the wild things inside of us that can make us better people. It's the quiet stir or loud voice shouting GIVE MORE. LOVE MORE. BE MORE. So put your wolf suit on, sail away from the You that won't budge or bend, AND GO TO WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE!!!!!!!!