Words of affirmation, in secret code

I left a secret message for Vera and she enjoyed decoding it herself, with some guidance from me.

It’s simple. Just find the corresponding alphabet to the numbers using the table. And it’s particularly fun for a little child who is a young or emerging reader.

My message to her was made up of five simple words…

“You are such a blessing.”

And I meant every word of course. Though I must say that she was a bit unsure about what the word “blessing” meant, so I took the opportunity to share with her that blessings are like sweet gifts from God. When I say she’s such a blessing, I mean she is such a great help to me, and such a joy in our lives too.

For being such a loving big sister to her two brothers - For picking up after Josh, who’s into throwing things all over. For bearing with Javier when he’s grumpy, for providing help when he needs a hand, for being his companion even when she’s surrounded by her own friends, and for bearing with his “long-windedness” (because he likes to start his sentence all over again if he misses a word or a thought).

For being a real little helper at home - folding the clothes, packing up toys, even helping me to feed Josh at times when I’m busy in the kitchen.

Sure, her attention span may lapse here and there, and while taking care of her baby brother, she can be distracted by other things or noises. But I honestly think that she makes managing a household of littles so much easier with her willing heart and nurturing presence.

Thank you, my sweet little princess, for being such a blessing in our lives. Forgive me too, for those times where I unknowingly place so much expectations on you, forgetting that you’re still very much a young child. I want to appreciate you for who you are, and affirm you for your pure and tender heart.)

Ahem…So anyway, here’s what she did to the page after decoding it…

I guess she’s got creative license after she goes through the hard work of decoding the message!

PS. I’m trying to shower my kids with words of affirmation more often. It’s a love language that comes naturally to me, and I think it sits well with Vera at this stage. Will you join me in doing so with your own littles?

PPS. If you do try this activity out at home, do let me know how it goes!

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.

Philippians 4:8