SEASON 1, EPISODE 2, “COUNTRY GIRLS”

28

STRINGING BEADS

“We start learning when we are born, and if we are wise, we won’t stop until the good Lord takes us home.”

—CAROLINE INGALLS

Learning is a lifelong process. It keeps our minds engaged with the world around us. When Laura doesn’t want to go to school, Caroline explains that learning is the best choice. Our lives are a continual lesson, and growing in knowledge and character is rewarding.

During our first season on the set, my sister and I spent many hours in our dressing room. Filming required quiet sets, and we weren’t always compliant. The older children were either on camera or with Mrs. Fife, the government-appointed teacher.

Sometimes Melissa Gilbert would sneak over to our trailer. We had more scenes with Half-Pint than with any of the other children, and we felt comfortable with her. Melissa even claims to have taught us our first word. We were stringing beads on the floor when one of us said “Bead”—our first shot at learning.

Even now there’s so much I don’t know about myself and especially about God. To keep learning, I have to be open to instruction and willing to practice. Growing in my knowledge of God has been a steady pursuit.

When we are young, learning is instinctive, but the more we age, the more intentional we have to be. I, for one, intend to take Caroline’s advice and never stop learning.

Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart to revere your name.

PSALM 86:11 NRSV

What is the first thing you remember learning? What is God teaching you right now?