Hello Everyone!
We are sincerely sorry that we have not yet discussed The Forget-Me-Not. Between the hospital visit and being sick going on two weeks now, we just have not been able to get our discussions done.
However we encourage you to go ahead and post your discussion in the comment section.
Thank you for your patience!
Blessings~ Jacque
You would think we need a Forget-Me-Not ring to remember to get our discussions done, huh? haha ;)
This story was really a neat reminder (pun intended) to always remember and be aware of what we are doing!
It is really neat how a simple little flower can show us so much about ourselves. I think forgetfulness isn't really about forgetting things, its about not taking the time to actually remember what you are supposed to do.
Most of the time I really don't have a problem with forgetting things, unless I am in a hurry and am not worried about what I am forgetting. That is when we have a problem.
This is such a neat story. I really like the way Sophia has a grace and air about her that she can lovingly chide Minna with such a degree of making a point, yet all the while only doing it so Minna knows. That is real love of a friend.
What an impact those pretend flowers finally had on Minna. These story just amaze me that the only way to get through to these girls is through flowers. You would think that just forgetting so many times would be embarassing enough to Minna that she would remember things better. But I guess she really didn't care.
The Forget-Me-Not rings are very precious and I think we could all use one every now and then. That really is a sweet thing.
Once again, through a little story of 15 pages, we read and are transformed with open eyes of areas to work on in our own lives.
What a blessing to read these stories! The Daily Planet
We find Clara still sad over the death of her father. And of her mother also. Her Aunt sends her to the Von Hugel's with some cloth, and there she meets Julia and her mother, who are kindred spirits to Clara. God has placed her there at just the right time, and she finds a sister in Julia. Clara recounts all about her father and mother to them, and they cannot help but remember their own loss of a husband and father.
As is life and the enemy of our souls, Clara has found a like-minded dear friend who will spur her on in her faith and piety, and the next chapter leads her to a wealthy family, highly desired by the world, but lacking piety. Clara's ears are tickled at what the young man has to say to her, and she is swept into a fancy, frivolous lifestyle and thought life, as well as amusements that draw her away from what the Lord has given her in her parents and her friend Julia. She has forgotten the admonitions of her father and her mother.
At first it seemed that she was not impressed with the folly and talk of the sisters, but when the brother came in and exclaimed of her beauty, as she has been given attention by such important people, she was then taken with all of the folly and vain words they said to her following. She was moved by the vanity that her father and mother both warned her about, yet she seemingly has completely forgotten what they said its effects would be.
I had thought from the beginning of this story, when Clara went to live with her aunt, that her aunt was a good Christian woman, but did not really have understanding of life. I thought she was a pious woman and a caring woman, but I was not sure she had understanding to apply in such situations, and it proved out in the case when Clara was going to go to the ball. If not for her friend who reminded her in the deepest way she could, she would have denied everything her parents tried to make real to her and warn her of and her life would have probably come to ruin.
We see the full circle of the red and white roses and the contrast her father made of them to impress upon her heart and memory to keep her pure and attentive to God's purpose in her life and to keep her from the worldly snares of vanity and vain flatteries. I was impressed that after Julia practically begged her to not go but to stay in her piety and away from the worldly folly of the Von Winnigs, that even though Clara refused her, she stayed faithful to her friend. It was a brilliant testimony to love, friendship and discernment that Julia recalled what Clara had spoken to her about the memory of the red and white roses. Upon seeing the red being replaced with the white, all of the words of her mother and father came pouring back into Clara's heart.
Rachel was reading to us, and when I heard the red roses were white, I could not imagine how. What a sweet treasure to hear that Julia was there, waiting on her friend to be brought down into despair and remember who she really was and how far she had removed herself from it.
It is a sad realization when we find that we have strayed from the words we have heard from the Lord and the path we were on in our walk with Him.
And, though her aunt was unhappy with her at first that she didn't keep her friendship with such a wealthy family, it was proven out to be the right path when the Von Winnigs lost their standings due to the folly and bad judgment of the children and a father who was more interested in his own games and folly than his own children and teaching them. Unfortunately, they learned well the lessons of their father.
There are several themes in this little story. One is that this is is a true testimony of real friendships. It is in the fact that sometimes friendships, though they may be beneficial to each party, and they may reflect a concern for the other, that is not the true test of friendship. True friendship is true. It is honest and leads you to better yourself in the Lord. I have come to be of the belief that any relationship that does not do this is not friendship as God intended it.
I am glad to see that joy did come back to Clara in the form of Mrs. von Hugel and Miss Julia. It is wonderful that Clara found kindred spirits in them. I am so encouraged to see them. I would love to have friends, especially a mother and daughter like them. It was great to see that they could relate to each other so much and glorify in their joy!
What a wonderful life Clara must have felt when she found a kindred spirit in both Mrs. von Hugel and Miss Julia! I bet she was just so happy to be able to relate and talk about her sorrows with them. It is really great to see that joy came back to Clara.
Her Aunt really puzzles me. She seems like a wonderful Aunt who will watch out and really loves Clara a lot, but she is somewhat clueless. I really can't believe that she just let Clara go off with these two girls. It seems she doesn't know very much about them. There is no way I would ever to that with my children, let alone my nieces and nephews.
It is very good to see that even though Clara spent a lot of time with the von Winnig girls that their horrible traits and bad habits did not rub off on her.
Although when Mr. Edward von Winnig flattered her, she did lose some of her innocence. It says, "Young Edward was now her only thought.", she let him take precedence and let a lot of other things slip. She took too much care about her appearance, spent too much time with her new friends, and lost touch with the one friend who truly cared about her!
How unfrequent it is to find an older woman who will actually take the time to mentor you! Mrs. von Hugel was more of a motherly figure to Clara than her Aunt. Mrs. von Hugel is really something. I know it is really rare when I find an older woman who will tell me what I need to hear in a loving manner. I am glad that Mrs. von Hugel felt comfortable telling Clara what she needed to hear. I am also glad that she followed through on her conviction that she needed to tell Clara what she did.
She did it in such love and admonishment that with Clara's gentle spirit, I can't believe she didn't heed it for more than she did. Of course, that is how satan works. When we hear what we need to, or something that convicts us and we start to get back on that path, he will bring in a distraction and take our minds off of it and put it back onto our sin path.
What a awesome friend Julia was to Clara! I am so happy that Julia was that concerned for her friend that she redid the bouquet of roses with white and red. What a smart girl Julia is! That is a true friend. Someone who knows you so well that even when you aren't listening or paying attention to them, they find some way to reach out to you in your dark hour! I am thankful I have a friend like that in Jocelyn!
It is so good to finally see Clara open her eyes and see the roses! haha! No, really I am very glad that she finally woke up to what her mentors had been telling her and actually had no distractions this time! God will always try again.
I think Clara's Aunt is just too worldly and materialistic. She really didn't see the value of not being friends with the von Winnigs, until after they went bankrupt. At least, she realized that Mrs. von Hugel knew what she was talking about and knew that she was right in what she was doing. I am glad to see that Aunt is grateful for Mrs. von Hugel's interference.
As we end this tale, what a beautiful ending it is! How sweet that they did get men who had very high integrity! How sweet that they always remembered the lessons of the white roses, and yet combined them with the red! Wisdom and beauty!
This was such an encouraging story! What a blessing to take and learn some lessons from. It was such a beautiful story! The Daily Planet
I sure hope the rest of the story is a little more cheery than the beginning. Wow, what a sad story of a precious little girl. She lost her mom at about the age of 10. Then she loses her dad at the age of about 12. The ending of Chapter 5 twisted my heart in a knot...."I have but one wish, to die". Wow, I sure hope Chapter 6 turns things around for little Clara.
Well, I see that I posted my comments for Chapters 1-5 on the wrong spot. But I have finished the rest of the story now. So I will add my comments for the last half.
How blessed Clara was to have a friend like Julia. Julia shared her pain in the loss of a loved one. She shared Clara's love for the Lord. She shared Clara's desire to live a Godly life. When Clara got in with the wrong crowd, Julia stood beside her and encouraged her to stay true to the Lord. When Clara refused to listen, Julia didn't give up on her. Julia stayed true to her friend and didn't give up on her. The white roses spoke to Clara's heart in a way that nothing else ever could have. I will never look at a white rose the same way again.
Edited by schomeschoolmommy on Wednesday, February 20, 2008 at 11:40 PM
Oh, if only we could all have a true Christian friend like Julia! Even though she was forgotten and forsaken for these other friends, she still went out on a limb and made an effort to remind Clara of the virtuous path. So many people would be bitter or offended and give up on their "friend." But TRUE friendship includes love... and when you love someone, you sacrifice your relationship and get out of your comfort zone just to show them how far away from God they are straying.
I think this book also sent a message that even "very good" girls will struggle to stay on the straight and narrow. Being a Christian does not guarantee a perfect life nor a life without temptation. We have to choose Christ daily.
I will never look at a white rose the same way again!
Edited by drewsfamilytx on Wednesday, February 13, 2008 at 10:46 PM
Amanda, I agree with you about the aunt. I was concerned from the beginning for Clara to be with her. I think she knew the Lord and the Word a bit, but not really in application of the worldly temptations of the open wounded heart of a young lady. Another thing I want to point out is that a lot of times, I feel that 'things were different then", but I think things have always been pretty much the same. "There is nothing new under the sun."
KD, I totally agree how sad the story is at the beginning. What a sweet story of a young mom and her daughter, then the tragedy was really unbelieveable. I mean, I could believe she lost her mother, but her father too?? That was very unexpected. I hated stopping there, but I am sure you will be happy with the way Clara's life turns out!
Oh Marshie, your words are like gold! Yes, a true friend sees these things and finds a way to express them in love to their friend, bearing her sin with her, showing her the light of God's word. Julia was very fortunate that Clara did accept what she told her and did not shun the truth of what she said, too.
"Being a Christian does not guarantee a perfect life nor a life without temptation. We have to choose Christ daily. " Absolutely. Totally. A daily choice to put into action.
All in all, I love the contrast of the red and white roses, and I agree Marshie!! I will never look at red or white roses the same way again!
My first thought about this story was about the very name Clara. Clara means Clear and Bright. I hoped right off that the character of Clara would portray this meaning well and overall, she did. However, she needed the guidance of Godly family and friends to keep her on the true path.
White roses are my favorite flower! I have purple roses on my blog b/c purple is my favorite color and roses are my favorite flower, but I have always LOVED white roses. They are a symbol of purity and their usage in this story is so sweet!
Claras mothers death was so sad and it broke my heart that her father had to send her away just at the time when they needed each other the most. How much more tragic when he also died.
I felt like Claras flirtation with the world was, in part, the fault of her guardian. She should have kept Clara closer. Her excuse (or the implied excuse) was that she was inexperienced as a parent. Well, arent we all? It is a blessing for the character of young Clara that there were a few with wisdom in her life because the Aunt surely failed her niece at this point!
Another striking point that I have been considering is that sometimes having more means we come to expect to deserve more. The more pleasures and treasures Clara was afforded the more selfish and vain she became. She fancied herself as special to the arrogant Mr. Von Winnig and allowed his flattery to disarm her. Herein lies a common stumbling ground for young women. This is even more reason guardians need to carefully guard the hearts and minds of their young charges. Certainly, her aunt also considered it a flattery that the rich young man would notice her niece, but she SHOULD have been considering the known character of this would-be suitor.
The imagery of the white roses was more powerful than any words or warning at the end of the story. When used right away and consistently words will produce a better effect, but by the time Claras heart was so far wooed from truth that words alone fell on deaf ears it was then that her true friend found the inspiration that would be the saving grace of Claras purity.
Julia was a true friend. Instead of pacifying her friend or joining the flattery game, she chose to speak the truth. Julia also carefully and wisely chose HOW to speak in a way that she knew Clara would really HEAR! In order to be this kind of friend (or parent) we must intimately know the intended listener. If Julias previous conversations with Clara had been self-serving, she might not have heard deeply enough to understand what the imagery of the white roses would have done. The impact would have been lost.
What lessons can we glean? As parents, do all we can to know our children well. To speak to them truthfully and consistently. Avoid indulging them and flattering them or allowing others to do so to extreme. I am not saying that they do not need encouragement, but never in a false and self-exalting way. May we also, never use inexperience as an excuse not to fulfill our duty to our fullest.
As friends, we need to listen with our hearts. We need to be willing to lose a friendship, if necessary if deception and flattery are the ingredients for preserving the relationship. We need to be truthful, but wise in the administration of truth. We need to be gentle, but as honest as possible.
I have often said that I would rather be wounded with the truth than be kept blissfully and ignorantly (and falsely) happy with a lie. This story is a perfect illustration of the dangers of false friendships. It has many applications, but these were just a few that intrigued me.
This story opens up so sweetly. You can almost hear the lovely conversations between Clara and her mother. She was the joy of her mother. Her father too. I love it that her mother realized at the tender age of four that Clara had a passion of flowers and saw an opportunity to keep her daughter's heart by planting a flower garden to share and enjoy.
I loved the childish delight when she showed her father what a rose looked like after it's bloomed, because he had surely not ever seen a red rose before. And how he played along. What beautiful simple Biblical truths her father and mother spoke to her as they spoke of the flowers and their colors and their texture, comparing the sweet smell of a rose to the sweetness of a girl who is of good behaviour and gives her parents pleasure. Also the opposite of the pain of the thorns in her little fingers to and obstinate and disobedient child.
"Taking pleasure in everything that was good, sweet-tempered, contented, and affectionate, she was, in a word, a living and lovely picture of innocence."
Then the story changed so very quickly to Clara at the age of ten, when her mother becomes ill. What did you think of "she prepared herself, like a good Christian, for the great passage to eternity, and devoted her few remaining days to her beloved daughter..."?
It made me wonder at "preparing yourself" and the wording that it is "the Christian thing to do". To me, it seemed like she was still doing what she had always done. As she was on her deathbed, her last words are an admonishment to her beloved daughter. Teaching her still, telling her that many things in this world that appear fair and lovely are hollow and deceitful. Hollow and deceitful. Oh, to a child of ten, that must be so foreign. It cannot have the meaning that we as adults would understand to Clara. But her mother knows that she must say it.
The only answer her mother gives her for the remorse and affliction of the world is to "Cling, therefore, close to God, walk always as if in His presence, and let your daily prayer be that He may keep you under His holy protection." If only I could get this. Ouch! How convicting are these words to my heart. Life for her little girl when her own life is ebbing away. She gives her other life-giving verses: Blessed are the pure in heart; What doth it profit a man to gain the whole world, if he loses his own soul?; Honor your father.
It was surprising to me that Clara had not seen a white rose bush.It was also surprising that she didn't relate purity and heaven and a million other things to the color white. Can you believe the horror she felt when she related their white hue to the pallid last picture she had of her mother in death? What did you think about the fact that her father knew it would surprise her, but he already had planned on making it a lesson for her? I mean, he spoke to her of her own death that could happen sooner than she expected. He told her to remember the pallidness of her mother's skin when he saw the rose.
"Beauty fades like the rose; innocence alone has lasting worth. Preserve it, for it is a most precious treasure."
So Clara was homeschooled by her mother, and now she is without an instructor, because her father could not be home. It was strange to me that she would stay with her aunt so far away for a whole two years. I suppose this thing happened frequently in that time. For me, another departure from a parent was a bit heart-breaking. I also could not bear to send one of my children away for any amount of time, let alone for two years.
I know her Aunt was a good influence on her, but it was puzzling why she was trying to get Clara to admit that she preferred the city to the country. Clara must have been honest and gentle in her responses, because they persuaded her Aunt to request her sing the entire song. Her Aunt realized that the choice of the country over the city was something deep in Clara's heart, not just a preference. It was rooted in sweet and precious memories of her times with her parents.
When I read that things are looking up for Clara, and she will be going back to her father after a long two years, I thought yay! how wonderful! But noooooooo! Her father died! Could you believe that? And her Aunt, in consolation, offers to adopt her and give her all she has, and all Clara is concerned about is being with her parents again, not of the things of the world that she does not have as an orphan. Poor sweet little girl. Now what will happen to her?
When she first went with her Aunt, I wondered what might happen to her away from home, in a big city. But, at least then, she had the hope of going back to her father. Now, I wonder what will happen.
First, what a lovely name for such a sweet baby! I love the name Clara. It is just such a beautiful name that you can only guess that if you name a child that, that she will indeed be so very sweet!
Clara really is a darling girl! Her childish ways just show the love she has for her parents and her flowers.
I really loved how she explained to Clara about the world in something she understood. Clara understood beauty, and her mother understood her. Priceless!
I wonder why the rose tree would have brought grief to her father. You would think that it would be something lovely that would remind him of the loveliness of her.
Like Mom said, I wonder too why she didn't know about white roses.
Poor Clara seeing her pallid mother in a rose!
I love the explanation that Clara's father gives her about the white roses. That is so touching. I love the father-daughter relationship betweenh them. Girls really need that.
It is strange to me that the Aunt is a business woman. I don't think that was the normal back then.
It seems that Clara's Aunt is way too worried about her belongings and beautiful material things. She doesn't see the simplicity of life and all the lovely things to enjoy. She doesn't have an appreciation for it. How different she is from her forester brother!
You can tell her Aunt truly loves her and wants what is best for her, but she still doesn't understand Clara, I think.
Poor Clara! Just when she was so excited and ready to go home and be with her beloved father, he is snatched up from her grasp!
Her Aunt is so very kind, but nothing can replace a parent lost forever. Not even a beloved Aunt.
In such a short life, Clara has faced many things. I do wonder what will happen, but reading this story, the verse "For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."Psalm 30:5 comes to my mind. I do think that joy will come back to Clara. The Daily Planet
OH that was an excellent discussion dearest Mother. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Indeed I did. I wonder if perhaps I should go and pick up the book myself, but I daresay I will. I am absolutely lazy when it comes to reading (unless, of course, it's my novel). But as Mr. Darcy says .... an accomplished woman does have to read an excess amounts of books to be "accomplished". ;D
We really enjoyed reading what you thought about chapters 1-3 last week before putting our discussion up, so I hope that you don't mind if we do that again. I don't mind saying that I am just now going to read these chapters to our children this afternoon. The joy of homeschooling is partly in being able to live through unplanned events as a part of daily life and not as an annoying intrusion into our planned lives. We have not been able to read it yet. If you have, please share your thoughts on it.
I did write up my chapters 1-3 and will be posting that too! I look forward to the end of this story and seeing if all of our wonderings have been answered from the last discussion! Jeannie (and anyone who joins us later), I look forward to reading your discussion on 1-3 as well as these chapters.
Thank you ladies! I hope you have a great week, and I also hope to get some more extra-curricular-type posts up in the very near future!
I did get my reading done as well as my discussion, and I don't think I can cover all of the wonderful themes and times I wanted to jump up and shout. It is a wonderfully inspirational story.
We had wondered if they were, indeed, inside the home where the treasure was buried underneath. I can hardly believe they really were. So, all of this time, they were living above a great treasure. That is amazing. I must say kudos to our 10yo, Eric, who asked me at the end of chapter three if they were living in the house where the treasure had been hidden. Ok, maybe it was only me who didn't get that.
Of course they find the treasure. Some of the items show their age as they pull them out of the vault, only to become so beautiful later in the story. I loved how Mrs. Vollmar just was taken with the beauty and long-lasting-ness of the jewels. The way she fawned over the pictures of the grandparents. Mr. Vollmar saying that age takes away our 'beauty' so-to-speak, but our spirits live on. They are constantly applying the Word and spiritual side to everything. That is how it was with (my husband, Matt's) Grandmother. She lived God and breathed God. It wasn't a conscious effort because it didn't have to be. It was second-nature to her, and it came out in all things. It didn't have to be thought-through. That is how Mr. and Mrs. Vollmar are.
What about the letter Lucas Vollmar wrote to his son and grandchildren whom he knew he would never even meet? The blessings he passed onto them, without even knowing them. The prayers for them and their souls to be good and honest. And, the last words... those of salvation in Christ? What a heritage that I do not think many can comprehend. Do we realize what our prayers and hopes and dreams in the Lord are for our future generations? Our prayers are so important to the future of our children and grandchildren.
I mean, Hugh was a young man when his father passed, but he apparently knew what his father had taught him and lived by it well enough to pass it to Frederick. This isn't something that just all of a sudden comes into one's heart. Not that it isn't possible with one who wasn't raised that way, but here, it is clearly something passed from one generation to the next. What a blessing and a heritage to read these words from a grandfather to his grandson. For Frederick to hold the letter his grandfather wrote to him before he was ever born. To him and his children. Wow.
And Frederick counts it a blessing that the treasure was hidden all this time. He truly knows the providence and hand of God. To know that it was necessary for his father and himself to learn the value of hard work and money is a virtue he clearly understands. He isn't lamenting all his father went through and asking God why they had to go through hardships when all along the treasure was right under their feet. He is thankful and knows the providence of God in it.
Ha... get this... do you see what he considers it? A HEDGE of protection. He said it may have caused him to "turn his head" and indulge himself had he known about it sooner. What wisdom.
"A good education and the fear of the Lord is the best heritage we can leave our children."
Amen to that. Riches are nice. It is (or it would be) nice to not have to worry about things like money. It would be nice to buy things when we needed them. But, as he said, "riches have been the ruin of many". They really have. Doing without or working hard to get things builds character. Being handed everything only makes men selfish and causes them to expect things. Mr. Vollmar said they must continue to be frugal and train their children that way. I agree.
To give our children the Lord is what is of great value. It is of eternal value. All of these other things that probably just take our eyes off of the Lord anyway will pass away. They will all be chaff blown away. Only our fear of the Lord and what we have learned of God will last. What we have done in Him. That is a tall order in today's society, but it really is our only option. This story tells us we can do it. Live for the Lord above wants and desires of our own doing. We can focus on the Lord and present our children with a Godly heritage. It is possible.
"To learn to do good and to work with one's own hands will provide more security than all the riches one can gather in a lifetime." F. Vollmar
Thinking back to the time when Mr. Vollmar almost sold the Ecce Homo... That is mind-boggling. What if he had sold it? What if it had been just something of monetary value? God was there. All the time.
I love all of the Christian influences on all of the plates and other objects they found in the treasure. Mr. Vollmar telling his children in great detail of how the treasure is wonderful, but not nearly as valuable as Jesus and piety and living the goodness of God. It seems to draw me in and set me right there with them as they talk about each goblet or coin. I am taken with the warmth he holds in all the Godliness represented here far above the monetary value of each piece.
The old man was touched by the true piety and love for God and a Godly life in this family. It stirred his soul. The love for God that the Vollmars had was infectious. The faith in God and the desire to fill the shoes his parents and grandparents and even great-grandparents left as a heritage was inspiring to the old man. It was inspiring to me. It is right. It is how we can all live our lives.
The Word says there is nothing new under heaven. Yes, our times are different. But, we are faced with temptations as are common to man. They have been around for centuries, since the fall. I do not believe this is just a story. I believe it is something to strive for, even if we are the first generation. How beautiful. I would love to copy down my favorite quotes, but then I would find myself copying pages of what Mr. Vollmar had to say.
I finished reading the chapters a few days ago. I am so thankful that I found out about this book club, thereby learning about this book. Otherwise, I would have never heard of this book and had the opportunity to read such a treasure.
I am inspired by the overwhelming love and honor this family had for God and for each other. They knew what was important now and in eternity. The real treasure wasn't the riches that they recovered. The real treasure was the Godly heritage of their ancestors, being passed down from generation to generation. Their treasure was the inheritance that they knew they would receive for eternity.
I loved the letter written by Mr. Vollmar's grandfather to future generations, to children he would never know. He passed on love, wisdom and a Godly heritage.
I agree with you. This book had some amazing quotes. Several were gems that I would like to write down and keep, to remind me of their truths.
I didn't look ahead after reading these chapters. I was afraid I wouldn't stop reading if I did. So I didn't realize that was the end of the story. But I am very excited to start the next story. I trust that it will live up to the same standards as this one.
What a precious book! I loved the sweetness in the attitude of the characters. There is a goal to attain to to fully believing that God is provident so much so that my attitude will always be pleasant and trusting!
The suspense of chapter 6 in the process of opening the vault was amazing. If it were possible to hold ones breath while reading aloud, I would have! As it was, when the old man yelled out Victory! upon finding the stonework uncompromised I let out a sigh of relief! This book very effectively calls you into each scene as if you were truly a part of it all!
Was it not so very precious how much Mrs. Vollmar treasured the portraits of her in laws? That would be like me. I love photos so much and even when they are someone elses loved ones, I cannot help but to examine each detail of the features! How much more wonderment would be expected at discovering paintings which lovingly captured the details of your husbands family?
Lucas Vollmar having made provision, so thoughtfully, not only for his offspring, but also for the local charities brought tears to my eyes. When confronted with crisis in my own life, do I take the time to think of how I may bless others? I certainly have never been so thoughtful of those in need around me when I feel that I am in a time of trouble. May I be more Christ-like after this.
It would be fun to write a sequel to this story that would include the reception that the old mason must have received upon returning home to his family with his unselfish grandson. Can you imagine the joy with which his children would welcome them home? Can you further think of the expression upon his wrinkled, old face when he at first beheld grandchildren whos faces he has not previously ever been able to look upon? What wonder would overtake the lot of them with the retelling of the adventures they had just encountered and how might it change the lives of all of them, especially the lad who had led his grandfather on this journey?
How fitting are the keys to victory in this tale and how truly they apply to real life. If we will seek to serve others in an effort to bring glory to God and if we seek HIS face, then may we know true contentment and joy. As we hold earthly treasures loosely and heavenly treasures dear, then may we be at rest.
I am still here, the reading is taking a lil longer than I had thought to catch up with you all. Last night Hubby said it would be ok if I read the first chapter to him too. He liked it, and we both learned about things we didnt know before, I really like how they will describe certain things that have meanings down at the bottom of the page(with the number they are refrencing it from)
Be not like the rich glutton in the gospel, else the blessing will turn to a curse in your regard...
Forget not that God hath but appointed the rich to be his stewards...
Thus will the temporal blessing prove a source also of eternal happines.
I think I could just copy all of that (and more) to stick onto my Will. Not that I have some great treasure to leave my children (at least no monetarily) but there should be some coinage!
I thought it also interesting his comments on pg. 79 about "Experience teaches that great riches seldom reach a third generation; it is a proverb that the 'grandfather gathers, the son scatters, and the grandson starves,' and it is too often the case." Okay, insert that whole page about a good education and quiet works with one's hands! And leaving a heritage including a fear of the Lord.
Honestly, could I say it any better than Mr. Vollmar? What a legacy we could leave our children and grandchildren!
Well, sorry for the lack of discussion on my part but my words really would pale in comparison!
I agree with Mrs. Kimberly. I too was so inspired by the love and grace this family showed each other and others!
I too, Marshie, loved the whole paragraph on education and a fear of the Lord. The proverb really made me think. It is so very true and eye-opening to see it in words.
Reading the will and testament of the grandfather was so very nice. I was touched by how important it was to him to make sure that that was written out.
The whole rest of the book is just wonderful! To read all that encouraging speech that both Mr. Vollmar and the old gentleman spake is just wonderful.
Here is another wonderful book that is almost a devotion. actually it is.
I loved how this entire story wove words of wisdom from the Word into every aspect of it. I hope I can leave a legacy like that. That everything I say and do I weave the Word of God into it!
There is not much I can say about the rest of this book. It is so priceless. All the things I have learned through reading it I will carry with me!
Love,
Miss Amanda
http://superangelsblog.com
Please feel free to add your discussion to the comments section. We will be adding to our discussion and are interested in yours as well!
As for me, I do not know why I continue to put off reading these Lamplighter books. They are like not too many other Christian books I have ever read. They are real stories, not just Christian fiction.
I am loving this story too. I finished reading chapter three aloud, and Eric, who was not thrilled to be sitting still said, "Read more. Please? Read the next chapter?". This story has captivated us, and I cannot wait to hear what you think of it.
Did you read it aloud or in the quiet by yourself?
How did the use of scripture impress upon your heart?
What a breath of fresh air to read of the tenderness with which Frederick spoke of his Grandfather and Grandmother. Did it evoke any feelings in you?
Do you believe what he is saying about wealth? Do you think you would feel the same way? That losing it is in God's hands?
What about his father who did not go without, but did not by things he didn't need, and therefore could gather to himself a great fortune? That is hard in our society, isn't it?
I had to force myself to stop after the first three chapters. I was very tempted to continue, but I didn't want to end up finishing the whole book in one sitting and then not feel like contributing to the discussion. Be proud of me! ;-)
One of the passages that really stuck out to me was this one:
We must never place our trust in the wealth of this world, but only in God, who gives and takes away, and who can restore it to us when it accords with His all-wise design.
Sure I know this in my head, but if a great change in our personal financial situation were to suddenly come upon our family, would I honestly and wholeheartedly be able to immediately say Blessed be the name of the Lord!?
I am not so sure of that. I would hope that I could and would, but have not ever been sorely tested in this regard.
I will say that I admire how he tries to teach his children valuable lessons even during trials. I think as parents, our children learn much by our example and attitudes during difficult times. For example, my mother would fret and get upset over the silliest of things. But when times were very difficult (like when my dad got laid off from his job once) she completely surprised us kids by her positive attitude and her complete faith in God's hand in our lives! Her attitude and belief was that when God moves, it really is for our good! I will never forget that time, as well as my surprise in her strength and faith.
One more thing... I am wondering what will happen with the rich banker that wouldn't extend the due date for the money owed by Mr. Vollmar. Will he learn a great lesson or will he be punished somehow or what?
Sorry about the jumbliness in my thoughts, but I wanted to post before I completely forgot my train of thought!
Marsha
Edited by drewsfamilytx on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at 2:04 AM
I read the first three chapters to my children during our morning devotions this week.
As with Hedge of Thorns, there were several times when I had to blink back the tears so that I could read on!
How quickly we could tell the strong and Godly character in Mr. Vollmar. He was even so wise as to tell his wife that their children were their richest treasures and to acknowledge his duty to bring them up correctly. How few in todays society have had those true secrets revealed to their way of thinking?
I love the book of Job and the quotation of it upon loosing a great deal of wealth was encouraging. It was as if, it were such a habit to remember the Word of God that before Mr. Vollmar could quite finish his thoughts his wife unhesitatingly finished his recitation of the very summary and conclusion of the book of Job. I would do well to be so quick to remember what words are written in the Scriptures BEFORE wallowing in despair in challenging times!
They regarded money as a temporal asset and valued that which should really be valued. There was a time when I would disintegrate into a puddle of fear at every threat of trouble, but over time, I have come to trust God more. I still fall on my face at most challenges, but soon remember to get down on my knees instead! The example in this story is moving and convicting! All that we have is the Lords even our precious children. I pray that God will help me trust Him more with every situation!
All throughout these introductory chapters there is a generational tenderness woven. The honor displayed between parents and children, husbands and wives, grandchild and grandfather is admirable and sweet. From the portraits hung in honor of generations past to the little lad leading his grandfather on their ardous journey with little or no thought for his own comfort, we are given a picture here that would, sadly, be difficult to observe in most of our modern society!
It was equally poignant how Mr. Vollmar would remind his children of the Godliness and dear relationship that they had enjoyed when their grandparents were still alive. Often, now, we hear adults complain, even in the hearing of the younger generation, of the shortcomings of their elders. How tender and refreshing to see here a father whos words are impressed upon his little ones with forethought and care.
Didnt you just love the qualifications that Mr. Vollmars father had valued in seeking a wife? He just knew that his heart could safely trust in her. She sounds like the very woman described in Proverbs 31! He chose a wife based on prudence and virtue rather than on temporary prosperity. I am pretty sure that as a young woman I would need not expect to be considered worthy of such confidence! Hopefully, I am improving NOW (nearly 18 years into my marriage), but what a goal for our daughters, to be so steadfast and reliable in their younger years!
When the painting of Jesus was described I felt as if I wanted to try to recreate it, or to have my artistic daughter try! It sounded so vibrant and life-like. Wouldnt you just stare at the face of our Lord for hours if you had such a treasure in your own home?
I loved that the mother had taught the children to reflect upon their duty to Christ with the memorization of the simple little poem. Therefore, whenever they chanced to gaze upon the visage of Christ in the painting it triggered the thoughts of unselfish surrender to our Lord! We know that our works do not bring about our salvation, but her words reminded them to be mindful of their attitude, that it be worshipful to God in thanksgiving for the sacrifice of His beloved Son and that they be in a place of reaching out to others to His glory!
I love the way the mystery of the hidden treasure is woven into this story. I love the implication of provision to be found when we are unselfish and are willing to sacrifice ourselves humbly in order to serve one another in love. In a deeply spiritual way, there is truth to this in all of life. The less we focus on what we think we need and the more we seek to glorify God by being a blessing to others the more are false needs dissolve and our true needs are satisfied abundantly by our God.
It feels like the mystery is winding down so I cannot imagine what other surprises are yet in store. Have you ever watched a movie and seen a major crisis resolved only to glance at the time elapsed and think, That was too easy. There has to be more. That is how I feel at this stage of the book. I look at the number of pages remaining and wonder what else is around the bend. Then, I reflect that feeling into my own life. There are so many trials behind, but what lies around the next bend? However, a book like this reminds me to fret not, but to rest in the knowledge that my Lord knows the Way and IS the Way and His desire is to bring us good and not harm.
I pray that I will rest my heart safely in my Savior in times of plenty AND in times of want. I pray that I will remember where and what are my true treasures and I pray that like The Vollmar Family I will delight in the Lord at all times and bring Him glory in my world!
I finished the first 3 chapters. It was very hard for me to stop without reading chapter 4. The mystery was just about to be revealed.
The theme is touching. The Lord gives, the Lord takes away and the Lord can return it in HIs perfect timing if He wills it. Mr. Vollmar was a wise man. He appreciated that no matter what his circumstance, there was still something to be grateful for...still someone who was worse off than he. Mrs. Vollmar was an inspiration. No matter how poorly things were going, they still had the power to be a help to others.
I was touched by their strong sense of family...not only their immediate family, but the heritage of those that came before them. Their love and faith in God was inspiration.
Oh that I would leave such a heritage for my own children. It would far outweigh the wealth of silver and gold.
My husband and I are reading the book together. We also had to make ourselves stop at the 3rd chapter and are looking forward to moving on!
For me, this book is confirming what our family has experienced. We are a quiverfull family and each time we have a new baby, when the bills start rolling in, so does the extra money from places we never expected. God is so good and so FAITHFUL to his promises. Reminds me of the scripture from Psalm 37:25:
I have been young, and now am old;
Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,
Nor his descendants begging bread.
First of all.... Jeannie~ I sure hope you got your book or get it very soon!!
What can I say about the family that hasn't already been said? Christina, I too loved the way they made family heritage such a tender family- honoring thing. We are greatly missing that in our culture. It is something that ties us to our family and remains in us all of our lives. I loved the way the Vollmar parents knew what to say to encourage and spur each other on in the faith. It is beautiful. If only I did!! Yes, the fact that he holds his wife and children in such high regard *and* tells them so is a part of his character. His Godly character.
"Teaching our children valuable lessons during trials" That is so profound. That is our goal in homeschooling, isn't it? To teach our children the Word and character of God and how to think and make right choices as life happens. And, a lot of life is joyful, but a lot of life, probably moreso, is circumstances that are not joyful, but trials. A lot of times to teach and learn, I suppose!!
Interesting thought, Marsha, about the banker. Add to that thought of the friend who could have given him money, but just wouldn't. It makes you wonder if either of them will recognize the fact that the Vollmar's give when they are facing losing all, (though they may be rich and not know it). The Vollmar's know that God truly is the God of our fortunes and all other things, these other men do not. I wonder what will change with the discovery of a treasure, if anything in the banker and the friend?
Just think: if there is a treasure, then the elder (grandfather) Mr. V left his home a poor man and worked and worked, but was a rich man all that time. Same thing with the present Vollmars. They are facing dire circumstances, and by the providence of God, they welcome this man and his grandson into their home, and therein lies the treasure. It lies in their giving in their difficulties. Kinda' like giving out of our needs, not out of our abundance.
I totally love the fact that this painting, a painting of the Lord, is what is tied into the treasure. How true. All of our earthly riches may come and go, but our treasure lies with our Lord. Sometimes we are blind to it, but He will always allow our eyes to be opened to it, if we ask.
I agree, KD, "Oh that I would leave such a heritage for my own children. It would far outweigh the wealth of silver and gold." Amen! I also am inspired at how Mrs. V is. What an encouraging wife.
Becca, I totally understand and echo what you said... God is so faithful. I love the Psalm you wrote. I used to have an audiotape of Janet Paschal singing that in a song. It is running through my mind after reading that.
Ok.... I know it seems that I have disappear, but fear not, I am still here.
I did read this whole book with you, but just have not gotten my discussion done. Sorry!
When I first opened the book and saw the picture of the family and read the first page about them being so very wealthy, I thought, "Oh great, a stuck up, wealthy family", but I was wrong. As I continued to read about the family I got a better understanding about how this family wasn't the normal wealthy family you read about.
I *love* the lesson that Mr. Vollmar takes the opportunity to speak on. I was moved deeply by it. Like Marshie, I really liked the passage: "We must never place our trust in the wealth of this world, but only in God, who gives and takes away, and who can restore it to us when it accords with His all-wise design." That really struck some cords in me. I know I 'know' it, but to read it again, it showed me how unimportant things are in life.
To hear the history of his family was very interesting. I loved that he spoke with so much admiration of his father and grandfather. He really looked up to them as an example for his life. That is the way it should be!
It really was great to see Mr. Vollmar realize that his situation wasn't anything compared to Aloysius and his grandfather. I like that he says, "I am not alone in my misery..." and he goes on to think of all the things that he can do.
I know it must have been really hard for Mr. Vollmar to realize he would probably lose everything. You can tell he cared and loved his family more than anything and to think that he might lose everything that he had provided for them, it was probably too much for him.
Obviously, Mr. Vollmar knew that God had sent Aloysius and his grandfather to show them that they weren't that bad off. I love how Mr. Vollmar listens to God as He tells him he should take them in.
It is awesome to me that the Vollmars, in their desperate situation would call the doctor for the old man to have his eyesight repaired. They saw that he was in more need than they were. That is how the body of Christ should be. Helping each other out even when we don't have enough for ourselves. That was just so refreshing to see!
It was so loverly to see the love that Aloysius had for his grandfather. I think it is lost upon the youth today to love and care for your elders. I love old people. They are just so sweet.
I love the story and description of the Ecce Homo. It makes me want to go buy one and hang it up! As a constant reminder that, like Mrs. Vollmar says, "If Christ suffered so much for us, and bore that crown of thorns on His head for our sake, how can we expect to go to heaven without trials and walk on a path strewn only with roses?" I love how the children also take delight and love the picture so much!
As I winded this chapter down, I too thought as Auntie Christina did, that what more could be in store of this story. It seemed that the mystery was being uncovered.
I actually just kept reading until the fourth chapter. How could they do that to us and leave us hanging? I just couldn't stand the suspense of finding out what happened to our characters. :)
I loved reading all your discussions. I have learned a lot just from reading what you all have said!
Guess what? I finally got my copy of The Inheritance. YAY!! I can’t wait to start reading it with ya’ll.
I just love the way the Lamplighter books are. They are like old books. Little things that fit right in your hand or purse. I love old looking books like these. Nice and sturdy too!!
We would like to start discussing it next Wednesday, January 23rd. We will be reading 3 chapters a week and discussing them every Wednesday.
There are 55 pages in the first 3 chapters, so I hope the week is long enough for you to read them and write up a discussion.
If you haven't gotten your book, and think you need more time than next Wednesday, just let us know and we can wait.
I am really excited about reading this book. I chose it because I loved the description. "A faithful grandson seeks to find help for his blind grandfather. When the old man finally opens his eyes, he sees a painting on the wall before him and realizes that this is the very house where he buried a wealthy man's inheritance fifty years ago. To their surprise, much more is found than earthly treasure."
I totally love suspense and stories that will keep you guessing. I think this book will be great.
So I hope you all get your books soon, if you haven't already and I am going to read my three chapters and get my discussion done!!
I really can't wait to see ya'll's discussion on this book.
If you would still like to join us and haven't ordered or signed up for the discussion, there is still time. Just order your book here, and sign the Mr. Linky here, and wait for your book. We would love to have you!!
They told me it would arrive the 15th so they are right on schedule.
I am looking forward to reading the 1st 3 chapters & will be ready to discuss them on the 23rd.
Until then.....
I'm so excited about this club. This is the 4th book I've read along with all of you but I always got my book later then the beginning of the read. So I was always behind trying to catch up. This is the 1st time my book has arrive RIGHT ON TIME; not late but not early.
We are pleased to announce we will be reading The Inheritance by Christoph von Schmid. If you would like more information about our newest read or if you would like to order it, you can see it at The Old Schoolhouse Store. If you plan to join us, please let us know by signing Mr. Linky below.
We also would like to add your email to our blog alerts, so you know when we post. If you would like to be added, you may send an email to the HSBLiteraryClub Email.
I had to renenter my name and link the other one links it back to a old post.lol sorry, I also went ahead and sent a information link about the literary club to my local Home school group. You never know and since I enjoyed the last book I thought why not invite them to a online book club.
I ordered a copy of the book last week and am looking forward to reading it with my husband after the kids go to bed. :-)
Although we didn't have time to comment because of a new baby in the house, we did read "Hedge of Thorns" with our entire family and loved it. What a great reminder of God's protection.
I didn't see a Mr. Linky to sign in, but wanted to let you know that I'll be planning to join in on the new book! Looks like a good one!
Love & Blessings on your New Year!
Laurie
...who really enjoyed the discussion on The Hedge of Thorns. What an awesome book...we even bought a copy for a Christmas gift after reading it with you!
A faithful grandson seeks to find help for his blind grandfather. When the old man finally opens his eyes, he sees a painting on the wall before him and realizes that this is the very house where he buried a wealthy man's inheritance fifty years ago. To their surprise, much more is found than earthly treasure!
Author: Christoph von Schmid Written in: 1848 Pages: 192
The Inheritance is part of Rare Collector Set 2.
With a heart focused on excellence, the staff of Lamplighter Publishing labors to craft every volume in our Rare Collector Series. From the moment each story is selected until the books start arriving from the printer, no detail is left unconsidered. Each book is the product of multiple layers of text editing, meticulous artistic creation, and artistic creation, and comprehensive digital formatting. It is our desire that each book will bring glory to God as it presents the truths of His Word to your family.
Welcome to HSB Literary Club. Please join us in reading Rosa of Linden Castle by Christoph von Schmid. Written in 1845, this unique von Schmid classic tells of a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
To get started, click on the book icon and get yours ordered today!
am not worried about what I am forgetting. That is when we have a problem.
Posted by hsbliteraryclub
At first it seemed that she was not impressed with the folly and talk of the sisters, but when the brother came in and exclaimed of her beauty, as she has been given attention by such important people, she was then taken with all of the folly and vain words they said to her following. She was moved by the vanity that her father and mother both warned her about, yet she seemingly has completely forgotten what they said its effects would be. 
And, though her aunt was unhappy with her at first that she didn't keep her friendship with such a wealthy family, it was proven out to be the right path when the Von Winnigs lost their standings due to the folly and bad judgment of the children and a father who was more interested in his own games and folly than his own children and teaching them. Unfortunately, they learned well the lessons of their father.
Although when Mr. Edward von Winnig flattered her, she did lose some of her innocence. It says, "Young Edward was now her only thought.", she let him take precedence and let a lot of other things slip. She took too much care about her appearance, spent too much time with her new friends, and lost touch with the one friend who truly cared about her!
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Then the story changed so very quickly to Clara at the age of ten, when her mother becomes ill. What did you think of "she prepared herself, like a good Christian, for the great passage to eternity, and devoted her few remaining days to her beloved daughter..."? 
When I read that things are looking up for Clara, and she will be going back to her father after a long two years, I thought yay! how wonderful! But noooooooo! Her father died! Could you believe that? And her Aunt, in consolation, offers to adopt her and give her all she has, and all Clara is concerned about is being with her parents again, not of the things of the world that she does not have as an orphan. Poor sweet little girl. Now what will happen to her? 
First, what a lovely name for such a sweet baby! I love the name Clara. It is just such a beautiful name that you can only guess that if you name a child that, that she will indeed be so very sweet!
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