GOLDEN BOOKS AND THE GOLDEN RULE

And why were there no Christian Book Stores when I was growing up in the Bible Belt? Well, I'm probably not going to address all these in one entry. Maybe so.

I grew up on Little Golden Books. I've always loved reading, and in fact I recall three of these pictured that were mine. Some of the same and some additional ones pictured were valued by our children as well. My first, and therefore favorite was Molly at the Zoo, which I memorized. I also loved Little Black Sambo, and had no idea of how it inflamed a later generation for racist stereotypes. I just thought it was a great story about a little boy who loved pancakes and lived in a jungle.

But I don't remember any Little Religious Golden Books. Vaguely, I seem to recall one when one of our children was reading them. But I may be wrong. I know there was a missed opportunity to share the great stories of the Old Testament. And I also know there was a captive audience who would have loved them.

Also there were no Christian Bookstores in town when I was growing up. That surprises me, too. The nearest one was 60 miles away in Carbondale, and I think that was maybe begun 15 years after I was born. It wasn't what they are today. Again, another missed business and spiritual opportunity.

I'm appreciative of the many that are around today. Like stepping inside a church, I feel good just going to a Christian Book Store. Even if I have to pay more for a book, I'll buy it there rather than from Costco or Sam's. We have to support them or they will perish. Just recently in Scottsdale the Jesus Chapel Bookstore closed. That's sad. Though I do love to see Wal-Mart displaying and placing religious material in prominent places in the book section, I still like to see the exclusive stores.

"Support Your Local Library" used to be a bumper sticker. I'd alter it somewhat. And include "Buy Little Christian Golden Books for Your Kids'.