Have you ever picked up a book that seemed to speak directly to your soul? For many of us, The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams is just such a story. This timeless tale of a stuffed rabbit becoming “real” through love has touched hearts for generations. It has left its mark on readers of all ages.
The Power of Comfort Objects
In life’s most challenging moments, we often find solace in the most unexpected places. For children, it might be a well-worn teddy bear or a tattered blanket. For adults, it could be a cherished memento or a familiar routine. These comfort objects serve as anchors, grounding us when the world seems to spin out of control.
My son’s journey with cancer brought the concept of a “Velveteen Rabbit” to life in ways I never imagined. At just 18 months old, he was diagnosed with stage-4 cancer, and his constant companion through it all was a small stuffed bunny named Rarar.
Rarar: A Real-Life Velveteen Rabbit
Rarar, much like the rabbit in Williams’ story, has been loved to the point of falling apart. His fur is worn, his eyes and whiskers long gone, and his limbs have been reattached more times than I can count. Through endless treatments, surgeries, and sleepless nights, Rarar was there, offering comfort with his lavender-scented fur and unwavering presence.
“Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.” – The Velveteen Rabbit
Rarar has become “Real” in every sense of the word. He’s been lost and found, washed and dried, and loved beyond measure. He represents not just comfort, but resilience – a silent witness to my son’s incredible strength and the power of unconditional love.
Writing: My Personal Velveteen Rabbit
As a writer, I’ve found my own form of comfort and transformation through the written word. In the same way that Rarar has been a constant for my son, writing has been my solace and inspiration. It has been there through the darkest nights and brightest days. It helped me process my emotions, find meaning, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Writing, like the Velveteen Rabbit, becomes more “Real” the more we pour our hearts into it. It’s through our most honest and vulnerable moments on the page that we connect most deeply with our readers and ourselves.
Finding Your Velveteen
What’s your Velveteen Rabbit? Is it a physical object, a creative pursuit, or perhaps a cherished relationship? Take a moment to reflect on what brings you comfort and makes you feel “Real” in the face of life’s challenges.
We’d love to hear about your personal Velveteen Rabbit. Share your story and connect with others who find comfort in unexpected places.
The Magic of Becoming “Real”
The Velveteen Rabbit has a simple yet profound message. True love and authenticity can transform us. That is its enduring magic. Our “Velveteens” help us navigate life’s complexities. They include a child’s beloved toy, a writer’s passion for words, and other sources of comfort and inspiration.
As we face our own challenges, let’s remember the wisdom of the Skin Horse:
“Once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.”
May we all find our own paths to becoming “Real,” embracing the love, comfort, and transformation that come with it.
