Happy 2021! We are all filled with hope.
In the fateful year of 2020, teddy bears peeked out windows. It was happening nationwide and outside our country. It started with an Iowa family and a Facebook group.
Across neighborhoods, people were and still are placing bears or a favorite plush or a special picture in the window for all to see. These endearments serve as symbols of unity and love during these uncertain times.
It began as a game for quarantined children based on a children’s title, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, published by Simon & Schuster in 1989. It is written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. Most children know this story and have gone on many bear hunts in class and in their imagination.
I love that the universal teddy bear, a child’s companion, was the original pandemic ambassador for children of all ages. We all love teddy bears. We’ve given them, received them, and know children to pick their favorites as they grow.
Although, a favorite “teddy” comes in many forms. It can be a different plush animal, a doll, a blanket, etc. These special toys are children’s first friends. They choose them. Together, they play, snuggle, travel, confide, and share special times.
A particular toy’s love gives its child courage and strength. It is what we can do for each other. To have so much love that we remain humble to serve and forgive and put others first and maintain self control, thus supporting and empowering each other.
Gentle behavior and choices can give others strength. The paradox is that being gentle takes real strength. I want to be that much loved, tattered, old teddy bear that gave my all for others. I need to do better though.
It’s a new year and another chance. Let’s look outside ourselves and see what others may need from us. Let’s all be like teddy bears.
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:5 (NIV)
The Teddy Bear that we’ve all grown to love was named after President Theodore Roosevelt back in 1902. The full story is here
The Story of the Teddy Bear – Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace.
Image by Bruno /Germany from Pixabay
