Intense Childhood Thinking

When I need an example to demonstrate my earnest nature as a child, at times I use this book. I did not like the story in whatever format it was shared.

Thing 1 and Thing 2 did not inspire freedom and joy, but mayhem and chaos. Their play could cause harm, and a mess that others would have to clean. My imagination tended toward designing and building things. ‘Destruction is not fun nor funny’ said my young brain. The destroyers were lauded as playful and carefree, not reckless and unaccountable. Who would clean up the damage? Why waste magic to make right bad behavior?

Young Lydia was The Fish, and The Lorax, and similar characters created by Dr. Seuss.
She loved Sam, I Am. She loved Horton and the transformation of The Grinch — simple stories of growth, care, and community.

Current conversations surrounding what is necessary to rise from our nation’s present nadir brought this book to mind. There are multiple Things creating havoc among us, there is no magic hat, and the anxiety is real.

But I still believe Whoville is possible.