The Help

My book club picked this book a year or so ago, and I really wasn't all that thrilled about it.  But once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down.  It was wonderful.  It was one of those books that once you've turned the last page, you close the book and clutch it to your chest, wishing it wasn't over.  Dramatic, I know...but true, in my case.

Today, I watched the movie and it was just as moving, probably more so, since I now have a child of my own.  I love Aibileen's mantra of "You is kind. You is smart. You is important." to the little neglected girl.  And I genuinely hope that Millie will grow up knowing the difference between right and wrong and having the courage to stand up for what is right.  We wish we could raise her in a place with a more diverse population and a tad more liberal perspective, but this is home and John and I will do the best we can.  It's helpful that there are movies and books out there that are able to remind us what is important and how far we have come.