Saturday, December 20, 2008

That extra mile

The Minnie Mouse balloon danced over her golden curls. "I don't like it, Daddy." A frown filled the space between her rosy cheeks.

I watched as her father disappeared into the crowd of parade watchers and return with the balloon lady in tow, dozens of colorful choices floating above her head.

"Which one do you like?" He squatted beside his daughter and pointed above. Soon a smile appeared as she made her selection.

"That will be three dollars more," the vendor said. But the new price appeared not to bother him. He pulled out his wallet and completed the transaction.

All for a daughter he loved and wanted to make happy at the happiest place on earth--Disney.

How about us? Do we do the same for our readers? Do we give a little more to make our stories work? Do we go that extra mile?

9 comments:

Angie Ledbetter said...

I hope so. Love the balloon story. Good daddy!

Melissa Amateis said...

Good food for thought. Need to keep it in mind as I hit the manuscript today. :-)

Jessica Nelson said...

I've been asking myself that lately. It's easy to be lazy in our writing, but you're right, it's the extra that can make a huge difference.
Glad you guys had fun! Looks like she has daddy wrapped around her finger.

Pat's Place said...

Good story, great analogy. I have to think about that some more.

Kasie West said...

Cute story, Terri.

BiPolar Wife said...

Mmmm..I'm afraid I'm one of those selfish writers who is more concerned with getting it the way I want it rather than how I think the reader would like it. That may explain my lack of success in the area of publishing!

Kathleen said...

Fathers are such precious gifts to children; and children to fathers! I love the protective, accomodating, tender nature of the father's response in your story. How like the Lord's with us!

I once heard someone elaborate on the scripture that says fathers need to "raise up a child in the way THEY should go", pointing out the uniqueness of each child's needs and "way".

Thus I hope that every word from my mouth and meditation within my heart (and post on my blog) honors the Lord, and blesses my visitors.

Looking forward to your safe return and ongoing insights.

Kathleen

Janna Leadbetter said...

Great depiction, Terri! I could see it happening as I read your words. :)

Technonana said...

Oh I do hope so!!! I want to reach people with the message of Christ!!! And the Joy He gives!!!
I can't imagine Life without HIM!!