Have Courage My Love

Elizabeth Levin is a professor of psychology at Laurentian University.

Ben the cloud was growing up. Even though he loved his mother, he wanted
to fly further away and explore on his own. He met up with some clouds
that made him feel uneasy. One cloud in particular tried to control Ben
and the other clouds. This cloud pretended to be his friend but was
actually mean and hurtful. Ben knew he did not want to be part of these
clouds, but what could he do? Then he remembered his mother telling him
“have courage my love.” Using all his strength, he pulled himself
away from the strange clouds. Ben realized that these clouds got their
power from controlling others. Ben didn’t want to grow up this way; he
became a confident cloud with many friends because he listened to his
own feelings.

This story will likely appeal to children coming to terms with issues
of independence, peer pressure, and self-esteem. The story is also
appropriate for children who are being bullied. (Very sensitive children
may find the idea that thunder comes from monster clouds frightening.)
Parents and professionals can use the story to encourage children to
talk about their feelings and to make good though tough choices. The
book includes suggestions intended to help caregivers foster
conversations with children. Recommended.