More Than Satisfied

We were trying to get some work done, my husband and I. It was evening, the end of a long day, and we sat on the couch with our laptops
open. In an attempt to create a quiet space in which to concentrate, we told our energetic kids to settle in with some books.

Jackson, 10, took forever to arrange himself in front of the fire with floor pillows and throw blanket and dog. But finally he quieted—and within minutes was snoozing, the book he was supposed to be reading splayed across his
chest.

Meanwhile, Madeline, 8, nestled herself in the big armchair with a chapter book and started reading at page one. Except to get up to fetch an apple, she was quiet and still…absorbed. An hour later, she closed her book. “I’m finished.” She stretched and came over to me. “I feel satisfied right after I finish reading a long book.”

I hugged her—couldn’t help myself. She is a girl after my own heart! I love that she’s discovered—at such a young age!—the pleasure of losing oneself in a good story. I love knowing that a lifetime of discovery and connection awaits her.

All of which makes me feel more than satisfied. It makes me downright happy.