When They Asked What You Wanted to Be
Last winter, the seniors interviewed my firstborn daughter, along with the rest of her kindergarten class. They asked what she wanted to be, and she said a seashell finder. This little poem is my attempt to encourage her to stay true to herself as she continues searching for treasure. May it be an encouragement to your heart as well, for we are all artists, seeking to know the greatest Artist by looking at His world.
-Jolina
To my firstborn daughter, Miss A, and to creatives everywhere: may you seek treasure everywhere you go.
When They Asked What You Wanted to Be
When they asked what you wanted to be, you stayed true to yourself and true to your dreams.
“A seashell finder,” you said while sitting in a classroom filled with future teachers, police officers, and veterinarians.
Your answer made me smile, but I was not surprised. From the time you could crawl, love for life has shone in your eyes.
You are a seeker of treasure on water and on land.
My happiest moments have been carrying you on walks, and then, so soon, exploring hand in hand.
The fossils, nuts, and shells you store beneath your bed. How you organize things by color: blue, green, yellow, red.
The songbird feathers you tuck into your hair. The fireflies you chase in the warm summer air.
These unique gifts make you you, and I hope you don’t change no matter what you do.
As you grow, your dreams may lead you far from the beach, but remember to look around you.
Life’s greatest treasures are always within reach.
If all the children of the world were standing in a line, I would pick you, my seashell finder, every time.
You are my life’s greatest treasure, and I want you to know: I will hold you in my heart whatever you become . . . wherever you go.
How are you going to seek treasure this week?
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Melissa Crytzer Fry
I adore this post, Jolina. So lovely — your daughter will love reading it when she’s older.
jolina
Thank you, Melissa. 🙂
jolina
Thank you, friend.