There is a book in the GCC library called Papa Goose by Michael Quetting. The title may suggest it is a fairy tale but it is actually about a scientific experiment in aerodynamic adaptations of geese!

It sounds pretty dry and uninspiring, doesn’t it? Yet, this book has become a classic heart-warming,  entertaining story about Quetting’s journey of adopting seven goslings. 

The book goes much further than a scientific experiment and mirrors many of the journeys we go through as parents of children. The parallels are startling and reading the book was a different way to think about our parenting challenges. There were four things in particular that I found particularly helpful.

 1. Seven Goslings = Seven Personalities

Just like human children, the geese quickly developed their own personalities. Glorio is brave, loyal, energetic and protective. Nils is the social ‘butterfly’ who loves playing, and having fun and brings a sense of joy and liveliness to the family. Nemo’s curiosity often gets him into trouble. He is willing to take risks; his adventurous spirit makes his journey dynamic and engaging. Freddy is independent, strong-minded and stubborn. His independence causes friction but also showcases his determination.  

Calimero is more reserved and introverted. He is timid and cautious in unfamiliar situations. He is also gentle and calm, pays close attention to his surroundings and learns by watching others.  Maddin has a high level of energy and is always active. He is adventurous and not afraid of anything. Paul is calm and unruffled even when the others are excited. He is thoughtful, reflective and nurturing – looking out for his siblings and providing comfort and support to them.

 
Our Child/Children Have Different Personalities

When you were growing up, how many of you heard, “Why can’t you be more like your brother/sister?” from your parents? We didn’t like it when our parents put this pressure on us and yet we can still expect our children to be the same as each other or more like us when we were children. 

It’s always a surprise to see how vastly different our children turn out to be from each other; however, that is the beauty of their individuality. It can stretch our patience but find ways to celebrate, encourage and nurture their uniqueness. 

 2. The Importance of Presence

The importance of presence in Michael Quetting’s journey begins with him staying with the eggs day and night so each gosling will imprint on him as their parent as soon as they hatch.  Soon after, Michael moves all the goslings to a camper trailer in the woods and immerses himself completely in their nurturing. 

One of the most touching aspects of Quetting’s story is his constant presence in the lives of the goslings. He was there for every milestone, offering guidance and support. It was a big sacrifice for Michael but he made it for the sake of the goslings.

Our presence is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. Being present physically and emotionally provides them with a sense of security and belonging. They need more of it when they are young but even when they are older, they need to know our presence is available if they want it.

A cute story from the book sums this up. Freddy, the independent and strong-minded goose, flies off by himself for a few days before he is ready. Michael frets over his absence wondering what he could have done differently as a parent, but after a few days, Freddy was back knowing that he would be accepted and enjoy his ‘family’s’ presence once again.

 3. Allowing Independence

Freddie’s antics bring me to the next point. As our children grow older, they need more independence. Our very purpose as parents is to raise our children to become independent adults. Sometimes this happens at special milestones and is different in each family. For example, you might have a set age for your child to have a mobile phone or go on a first date or you might play it by ear and determine when they are old enough. 

Independence brings responsibility and it’s important for our children to understand that. For example, when they get their licence, it might come with the responsibility of filling the car with petrol every now and again or running errands for the family. Going on a first date comes with the responsibility of being home at the agreed time. 

Quetting struggled with his geese asserting their independence and it was a difficult time when he realised he couldn’t control them like he used to; however, he soon remembered that it was an important part of growing up and tried to be less ‘hands-on’ with his geese. 

 4. The Joy of Simple Moments 

Papa Goose is filled with moments of simple joy—watching the goslings swim for the first time, witnessing their playful interactions, and marvelling at their growth. These moments are a beautiful reminder to cherish the simple joys in our parenting journey. Often, it is the small, everyday experiences that create the most meaningful memories.

We remember the excitement of our child’s first steps or words but there is joy in the little moments also. Seeing your child pick up something without being told, watching them help their little brother or sister without being asked, laughing together at something silly – there are millions of joy-filled moments to delight in together.

I don’t know if you will have the opportunity to read Papa Goose but I recommend it to you. Maybe one of your children will borrow it from our library and you can both read it. What began as a journal to record a scientific experiment in aerodynamics ended up as a profound exploration of the principles of dedication and the beautiful journey of nurturing life. 

I hope your parenting journey includes beautiful times together celebrating the uniqueness of each family member and enjoying the “simple things”.

God bless

Mike Curtis, Principal