By Cortney Wright
Teacher of Classical Composition, Literature, Grammar, Spelling, Bible Study, and French
C.S. Lewis once wrote: “I can’t imagine a man really enjoying a book and reading it only once.” In anticipation of the kindergarten and 1st grade performance of Peter Rabbit later today, the middle school reread Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Of course, we still loved Potter’s beautifully rhythmic language, charming illustrations, and Peter’s daring escape from peril. However, because we’ve grown since our initial reading of Peter Rabbit, we noticed there is more to learn from the story. We will share some of the truths we recognized.
Truths from Peter Rabbit, as discovered by the middle school students:
"At the beginning of the story, Mrs. Rabbit tells her children to go all over to play except for the place where their daddy got hurt. It teaches them to learn from the mistakes of others."
--8th grade student
“Run along and don’t get into mischief.” Follow your mother’s wishes. Also, Mrs. Rabbit was bringing home 5 currant buns. If you disobey, you might miss out on a surprise."
--7th grade student
"Don’t let your eyes be bigger than your stomach, or you’ll end up feeling sick. Don’t take what isn’t yours. Be grateful for what you have."
--6th grade student
"Just as Mr. McGregor was on his hands and knees laboriously planting stuff, we should be on our hands and knees praying to our Lord to ask how we can help people around us. We should also be careful, not foolish, and stay out of trouble when we are tempted to do the wrong things."
--8th grade student
"Be in the right place at the right times and obey your elders. Be grateful for what you have and don’t be greedy."
--7th grade student
"Don’t bring coats and slip-on-shoes to vegetable heists. Also, when we think all is lost our friends can give us courage. Likewise, we can give our friends the confidence they need in times of trouble."
--7th grade student
"If you run from discipline then you might end up in a bad situation because you didn’t learn from the punishment. Finish what you started and control your temper."
--7th grade student
"When we are trapped and have no idea what to do, don’t give up. Always ask for help. We can always ask Heavenly Father for help."
--8th grade student
"Peter ran from Mr. McGregor and got away with it, this time. If Peter hadn’t been stealing McGregor’s veggies, he wouldn’t have had to run. He would be safe if he didn’t stick his nose into things that weren’t his. After many warnings, he continues to visit the garden and ends up getting caught. Listen to promptings and warnings from Heavenly Father."
--8th grade student
"If you do something bad and you run from it, you are going to be very tired. Also, take care of your personal belongings- shoes, coats, etc."
--7th grade student
"If you are not following and listening to the things that other wiser people have told you, you cannot expect the same treatment as the people who follow the teachings of wise people. If you obey and are good, you will be rewarded for your actions."
--8th grade student
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This historical thought was delivered by students in middle school at devotional on 4/20/23. Each week one class leads the student body in prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, scripture recitation, a meditation, and an historical thought. Family and friends are welcome, Thursdays 8:30-9:05 am.
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