6 Lessons from Dr. Seuss

Did you grow up with Dr. Seuss books? A few of my favorites from childhood include “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish” and “There’s a Wocket in My Pocket” and “Green Eggs and Ham”.

March 2^nd is Dr. Seuss’s birthday and elementary schools across America celebrate literacy and books the weeks around that day. When my kids were younger we celebrated along at home by reading and learning about Dr. Seuss. It has been awhile since we’ve participated in Read across America Day, but we enjoy his books and the lessons they teach in a fun and simple way.

While hanging out with my nieces and nephews last week, we attended their school’s literacy night. There were a lot of reading and writing activities and each kid came away with a free book. I love books and support how schools are encouraging kids to read.

Here are a few lessons you can learn from Dr. Seuss:

#1 TRY NEW THINGS

You don’t really know if you are going to like something until you give it a try. This includes new foods (like green eggs and ham), but also music and activities and books. Sometimes you just need to try it for a time before deciding if you like it or not.

#2 CHRISTMAS MEANS MORE THAN “STUFF”

Even after all the “Whos down in Whoville” had their Christmas gifts and decorations stolen, they still celebrated. They showed the Grinch that Christmas was spending time together and helping others. Christmas is creating memories and spending time with people you love.

#3 BE YOURSELF

Dr. Seuss had characters like The Cat in the Hat and The Lorax who didn’t care what other people thought of them. They helped the reader see that it’s OK to be different. Find the thing that makes you unique and love it.

#4 DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS

Dr. Seuss also had characters (like the Sneetches) who compared themselves to others. One set of Sneetches looked down on the other and they both wanted what the other had. They coveted it to the point that they went to extreme lengths to get it. They had to learn to be happy with their own gifts and talents. We are all created differently for a reason. Don’t compare yourself to others.

#5 READING OPENS DOORS

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, reading is powerful. Books offer different ways of looking at things. Books are where you can learn about people and places and events. Books show you a whole new world of opportunities.

#6 KEEP YOUR PROMISES

Making and keeping a commitment whether to yourself or someone else is a huge accomplishment. Horton is a valuable example of keep your promise when he does everything in his power to take care of the egg like he said he would.

What lessons have you learned from Dr. Seuss? Share with us in the comments.