At the wondrous moment you were born, 
as you took your first breath, 
a great celebration was held in the heavens, 
and twelve magnificent gifts were granted to you.

THE FIRST GIFT IS STRENGTH. 
May you remember to call upon it whenever you need it.  - from The Twelve Gifts of Birth
 

When I have visited schools to read and discuss The Twelve Gifts with children, I found that second, third, and fourth graders, for the most part, were at an ideal age to hear the story and consider how they see the gifts in themselves and one another. 

When asked to imagine what is happening in this photo, the answers have included:

The girl and her family just moved; she has to go to a new school where she doesn't know anyone and she is afraid.

It's her first day of school.

She has never been on a bus before.

Kids on the bus were mean to her the day before and she's afraid they'll be mean again.

And then we move on to having the students remember a time they felt afraid to do something. What did they do?

This is a great way for parents and grandparents to talk with children about the gifts and to listen to what is being said and what is not said, but what seems to be between the lines. Sometimes children are afraid to tell their families about uncomfortable things that happen at school. 

May we all realize we can be honest, authentic, and vulnerable because we have deep strength, courage, and compassion. And may we teach children this by our example.

Wishing you the best of life's gifts!

Always,
Charlene