Catching the Culprit

Have you seen my flowerbed? Something has been eating the pansies! See? Those flowers look all chewed up. And these leaves have holes in them. Will you help me discover the culprit?

First, let’s look for caterpillars. They usually hide on the bottom of the leaves. I don’t see any, do you? No, only some slime. Slime? That means… well, let’s set a trap to see. A old lettuce leaf in a plastic bag will be perfect. Meet me here early tomorrow morning. We’ll catch the culprit then!

It’s time to check the flowerbed! Come, we’ll bring this bucket of soapy water and some rubber gloves. Can you guess what has been eating the pansies? Oh, yuk! Slugs! Yes, there they are, all over the lettuce and on the flowers, too! We’d better get to work and drown them in this bucket before they sneak off and hide. But they’re slimy and squishy! That’s why I brought gloves. Here, we’d better get busy. Today I’ll buy some slug bait.

Thanks for helping me discover the culprit. I hated to see all my flowers get eaten up! Do you know, that reminds me of another problem. I love to see happy children, but something has been eating holes in your smiles lately. Have you noticed the complaining and arguing? It really makes for sad-looking faces and a gloomy day. What do you think is causing the problem?

Let’s see. You’ve had plenty of love and attention. And you’re not sick. Hmm, you think you want less work and more fun things to do? Ah, that sounds like slimy s…. Well, we’ll find out in the morning. Meet me here for a surprise.

Here you are. Have you slept well? Good. Are you ready for work? But I thought…. Oh, yes. The surprise! Here it is. A present! you say. Read what it says. “For you to give to someone special.” Yes, I see that frown. You thought it was yours, didn’t you? I think we’ve caught the happiness-eating culprit. Slimy old selfishness, which makes frowns and misery everywhere. Before it ruins your day let’s take some action!

Hmm. Selfishness won’t die in soapy water, like the slugs did. How about drowning it in gratitude and kindness? Start by telling me five things that you are thankful for. Good thinking! Now let’s plan how to make at least two other people happy today. Can you think of some ideas? If we ask Jesus for help, He’ll help us get the selfish slime off and you can start the day right!