c i r c u m s t a n c e s

"Spontaneous Living.– The laws of habit are, we know, laws of God, and the forming of good and the hindering of evil habits are among the primary duties of a parent. But it is just as well to be reminded that habits, whether helpful or hindering, only come into play occasionally, while a great deal of spontaneous living is always going on towards which we can do no more than drop in vital ideas as opportunity occurs. All this is old matter, and I must beg the reader to forgive me for reminding him again that our educational instruments remain the same. We may not leave off the attempt to form good habits with tact and care, to suggest fruitful ideas, without too much insistence, and to make wise use of circumstances." -Charlotte Mason

I am thankful for the reminder to embrace spontaneous living. To make wise use of circumstances. Because in life, not everything is planned. A lesson on shapes isn't quite the same as actually noticing shapes in our everyday. Having a worksheet set before us, to complete with a predetermined outcome, isn't quite the same as learning to be observant. To stop and discover and slowly savor the little things that can bring forth fruitful ideas. All the while, developing the habit of attention.