As a child, some of the most memorable books I've ever read were the Louisa M. Alcott classics, the Little Women, Good Wives, and Little Men. Even now, years after I first picked up the books, the words contained still have the power to move emotions and to realise the finer things in life.
         The books are about life and family. They reflect a bygone age where men were Gentlemen, women were Ladies and did what society expected of them. There is so much hope and happiness contained that they seem all the more sweeter because despair and sadness are also present in their lives.
         It is said that the stories are actually an autobiography of Louisa herself. She was Jo, the tomboy, and for a long time, I liked Jo because she reminded me of myself. Both of us are not only tomboys, but aspiring writers as well.
         In recent readings though, I've come to learn more about Beth, the little one who doesn't seem to have any romantic prospects, yet the one who lives at home and helps her parents. She is truly a heroine any child and even women should look up to. It is not her domesticity or her skills as a homemaker, but in the simple and yet powerful way she makes an impact on everyone's lives.
         Years ago, I was touched by the way Beth was portrayed. She was a lovely young lady who seemed to accept her cross cheerfully. She was one of those people that touched your heart because they were kind and caring to both strangers and familiars. Her death was not as painful or moving as the death of John later on in the series.
         Nevertheless, reading the books again later with a little bit years and a different perspective later on changed everything. Beth's cheerfulness pierced my heart and brought the hint of tears because her cheerfulness and childlike faith in the Father reminded me of my own grandmother. Like Jo, my grandmother is my Beth. She is the one whom I turn to for support, the one who will always be behind me no matter what happens. The Father loves all His children, and He will not let them walk alone. He is always with them, carrying them when the burden gets too tough.
         I'm lucky. My grandmother is still with me. Yet how long will it be before she goes to the Father? Yet, I try to be the child that my grandmother loves and cares, and to not be a burden to her. Isn't that the best we all can do?

         Mortality in these books are dealt with wonderfully. Read it with an open mind, an open heart. But most of all, read it with a child.

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Created Aug 06, 2004 at 9:19am • Submit your own review...