There are many times throughout the day when I have to tell Therese to “put that book down” so that she could participate in the world around her – especially when her father is home.  I want her to always choose people over things and realize that time with others is precious and a thing to be grateful for.

But what to do when I see her like this?

She is so cute.  Just look at those furrowed eyebrows and how much concentration she’s in.

Therese loves reading.  And I’m very proud of it.  I would rather she read all day than be in any one bad habit any other kid in the world these days have (like obsessions with certain musical artists, tv shows, actors/actresses, etc., etc.).

But I would also rather she enjoy people more than books.  In fact, I wouldn’t mind if she wasn’t so good at reading – if only she understood the value of time with others.  Sometimes, I blame myself that she doesn’t have more friends to interact with.  And I want other kids to absolutely love her because I know she would make a good friend.

But she is far from being a social butterfly.  And I don’t necessarily want her to be so.  I just want her to like being with friends and people more than books.

Is that so much to ask?  Am I overreacting?  Maybe she’ll have more than enough friends when she  gets older.  But isn’t she missing out on so much by being buried in books?  Isn’t she?

I will pray for this wish.  For her to keep on loving reading, but to also be aware that relationships with people are more important than any book in the world.