Since we went on a two-week vacation, we have had to modify the schedule as many of you have already noticed. I must apologize for not getting my discussion and the other neat information I had hoped to get on here.
I have already started adding a few new features like a Vocabulary List and A Closer Look at Rosa.
Here is the new discussion/posting schedule for Rosa of Linden Castle:
Chapters 1-3: June 25th
Chapters 4-6: July 2nd
Chapters 7-10: July 9th
Chapters 11-13: July 16
Chapters 14-17: July 23
Chapters 18-20: July 30
We plan to select and announce our next read SOON to give you plenty of time to order it and plan ahead.
We do plan to start the discussion of our next read on August 20th, which will coincide with a new school year, if you wish to read it for your homeschool.
Please see the ORIGINAL POST to read up on posting your own discussion.
Please leave a comment if you are still reading along (or you are almost finished!). Thanks! I hope you are staying cool and taking breaks to splash around and eat ice cream /with your children this summer!!
I know I am extremely behind with this reading, but I have been so enjoying my time reading it.
So here are my thoughts on this awesome book! :)
Chapter 1:Rosa's Early History
I like how the book sets you up with a picturesque type setting. It is almost like reading a fairytale of King Arthur, whom I have personally enjoyed reading about! To read about Edelbert and Matilda and how the Duke of Swabia are connected and blessed is really nice.
I was sad to read that Edelbert is not home often. It must have been hard on Matilda to raise Rosa pretty much on her own.
I loved reading about how Matilda has raised Rosa. It has made me think about how I want to raise my daughters. I am now at an age where I can see how things are done and decide if I want to do them or not and can take notes.
The relationship between Matilda and Rosa is such a sweet one. It is so sweet to see Matilda wake up early so she can watch the sun rise with Rosa. The way she incorporates God into everything is such a great example and reminder that that is what is really important to make sure we teach our children. Out of everything we can teach them, teaching them that God is awesome and to look for Him in all creation, that is most important! I love that she walked with her and talked with her like it says to do in Deuteronomy 6:7, "And thoushaltteach themdiligently unto thy children, and shalttalk of them when thousittest in thinehouse, and when thouwalkest by the way, and when thouliest down, and when thourisest up."
At the end of chapter 1, I love the sentence: "She frequently took her daughter with her to the throne of grace, and so war were her expressions of gratitude for mercies received, and so fervent her petitions to God for the blessings upon her husband, her child herself, and mankind, that the impressions made upon Rosa's mind were never effaced."
That right there sums up what a mother's most important goal in life is. To make her faith in God so alive and impressed upon, that they are not any where close to be pushed out or removed by anything! That is such a great testimony!
Chapter 2:The Death of Rosa's Mother
I don't like the name of this chapter. What a very short time to have with your mother. Rosa is younger than I am, and I know there is still so much I need to learn from my Mama. I wonder Edelbert is having regrets about not being home with his wife now that he will never see her again on earth.
What a lovely attitude of leaving this life Matilda has. It reminds me of Little Louisa's.
I love the words of comfort that Matilda gives to Rosa and her father. I love how Rosa accepts her mothers advice to be under her father's eyes and protection.
The ending of chapter 2 leaves us with a sad, yet wonderful picture of how much Matilda had done for her town and how much she is going to be missed. I know that everyone who knew her will not easily forget her. That is how I want to be remember. I want people to remember for what I have done for others.
Chapter 3:Seizure of Edelbert By Kunerick
Rosa gives us an amazing example of what a daughter is supposed to do. The way she cares for her father after he gets hurt and she makes sure that he isn't thinking about the time he is doing nothing. She tries to give him something to do that he will enjoy, like telling what happened in the past.
I am so astonished that Kunerick thinks he can just come in and take Edelbert prisoner and steal this things! It is appalling and it is sad.
I am glad to see that Kunerick left Rosa alone rather than take her away! That would have just been horrible and who knows if her father would have been able to bear it.
Chapter 4: Separation and Imprisonment
The command and speech that Edelbert gives Rosa is so touching. I love it that Edelbert tells Rosa what is best for her and guides her even though they are in chains and about to be apart. The words he speaks are so gentle, yet so commanding. It is just so great to see how he makes sure to tell her the important things, even though he knows she already knows them!
Poor Rosa, to not only lose her mother, but also her father! It would be so hard for me if both of my parents were taken away from me! What a horrible thing too to have to see your father, your hero treated the way he was! A great knight who is treating worse than dirt! Kunerick is such a hateful and horrible man!
Chapter 5:Rosa Seeks Refuge
It must have been frightening for Rosa to go through that forest when she had no idea where she was going. I know I get worried when I am going to a new place that I know where it is, but am not absolutely certain how to get there.
It is comforting to know that Rosa has a friend in Burkhard. I think maybe that is what helped her go through the forest, knowing that in the middle of it was a friend whom she could find refuge in!
It must have broken Burkhard's heart to hear what happened to his beloved friend! I know I would be very sorrowful to hear of a friend that I count as a sister that was taken into imprisonment or sin.
It is inspiring to know that Burkhard will take care of Rosa and find a way to free Edelbert!
Chapter 6:The Meeting of Rosa and Agnes
I love what Burkhard says about sleep and rest: "What a blessing sleep is. It makes us forget our sorrows, and, for a season, removes the burdens which we are called to bear in life, and imparts renewed strength, that we may be better able to take them up again." How many times have you gone to bed with a heavy heart, only to fall asleep and dream wonderful things, and then wake up and realize that your heavy heart is still there, like Rosa? At first you think, it was a bad dream, but then you realize it was life and it happened and now you have to deal with it.
It is nice to see how Burkhard looks after Rosa like he does Agnes. He is truly a great friend!
I wonder what Rosa is thinking as she comes into view of Burkhard's house. I wonder if she wishes she lived out there with all of God's glory instead of the castle. We come to see as the chapter ends that she is thankful for their little home in the woods because God knew this day would come and how it is so great that He provided this family to care for her now.
Make sure to read Eyebright's discussion and Mama's too! They have some really great thoughts on this book.
Next week we will be discussion chapters 7-10. Be sure to have your discussion ready, so I can link to you, so everyone can read what you think!
Rosa of Linden Castle
Chapter 4
Rosa , even in her distress, immediately cried out to God, O Lord help! Oh help us! Her father compelled her to calmly refocus and to put her trust in God rather than to panic. I loved how he admitted to his failings in trusting his own strength in the past in that it teaches us to realize the lack of success in that method. He renounced that error and resolved to look only to God from that time forward.
Edelbert instructs Rosa as to where she can find a safe haven and encourages her not to let her privileged life cause her grief and it seemed not to be. That is in and of itself remarkable and nearly unheard of, but Matilda had raised Rosa in such a way that she was neither prideful nor lazy. Her station could have afforded her no only material luxuries, but also indulgences of the mind. Instead, Rosa was trained to be respectful, diligent and resourceful. All of these skills will certainly be to the young ladys benefit now.
Edelbert also exhorts Rosa to be prayerful and to above all things, remain innocent and virtuous. A bit later he repeats the same advice and adds to it Love God. Cleave to your blessed Redeemer. Obey his kind instructions. Avoid the very appearance of evil
Somehow Edelbert had had the presence of mind to hide the medal the emperor had given him and gave it to Rosa as a keepsake and told her to never part with it and also to let it be a reminder to her of where she had come from and with Whos help she would go forward. So in essence it was a token of her blessed past and a symbol of hope in the face of an uncertain future.
I can only hope that in such dire straits I would have not only the presence of mind to issue such exhortations, but that they would be appropriately trained to meet the tasks before them.
Chapter 5
Rosas fearful and tearful departure took her away from her beloved home to search for Burkhards cottage. Wild animals, hunger, the risk of losing her way and sorrow grasped at Rosas heart.
When she did actually get lost she remembered to call out to God in prayer. The rising smoke from Burkhards coal fire that led her from that place made me think of the pillar of cloud that served as a guide for the Israelites in the desert.
When Burkhard learned of Edelberts fate, he was horrified. He almost failed to stop himself from pronouncing a curse upon Edelberts enemy. It was a sweet reminder of how we are to bless those who persecute us.
Not only did Burkhard comfort Rosa with sustenance, but with words of hope in the Lord and His plan. Then he offered up his one-person hut for Rosa to sleep. Burkhard did not sleep, but sat a worried, but prayerful vigil near the coal pit all that night in the midst of a raging storm. What a picture of responsibility and self-sacrifice.
Would that we will extend such hospitality and kindness to those in need in our own lives.
Chapter 6
When Agnes arrived with food for her father, she was instructed to take Rosa to their home. Rosa was grateful for the care of these dear ones.
The journey to the colliers home provided an illustration of HOPE in the trials of life and how God is faithful to always provide a means of escape. Each member of the family endured their own shock and grief and yet set aside their own feelings in order to give their attention to Rosa in her time of need.
The colliers wife reflected on a tender realization when she considered that when Edelbert had helped Burkhard build their home that he was unknowingly preparing a refuge for his own daughter.
Rosa was instructed to fully make herself at home and she felt consoled and thankful rather than entitled to such.
The attitudes of each of these characters provide a Godly model for us to strive to emulate in time of trouble.
I am way too far behind on posting my Rosa discussion. Since we went got Back Home, I have not yet caught up!
Chapter One deserves to be read and pored over all on its own time. What a beautiful picture of little Rosa and her mothers care! I am greatly challenged and in awe of her. She is caring for her little girl when her husband is gone, which seems to be quite often. She has instilled a love for Daddy into her little girls heart so much so that she serves her Daddy in sweetness and kindness and love and treats him like a King. It is such a lovely picture of a Godly mom and dad raising up their child to know the Lord in a very personal, everyday way. It is not a life of reading it in a book or hearing a story about it. It is direct conversation. And, it is real-something that is lived in word and deed.
All of the lessons that Mathilda teaches Rosa are straight out of the Scripture. I felt like this chapter alone was one that I need to read and reread to get the picture in my mind of Deuteronomy 6, to walk with and talk with our children, daily passing on the word and laws of God.
I am sorrowful, again, that this little girl has lost her mother. I guess these books are set in such a time that a young death is accepted. At least it is a sweet departure and admonition from a wife and mother who knew the Lord and His Word and was not ashamed to speak it. Also, she really lived it in a pious manner, so it is something that she can say in humility and surety.
I, too, wondered about Rosa's father being gone so much, but I think it was just the way it was. I don't think there was the 'pressure' there is today to fit into a mold, because they didn't have time to worry about a 'mold'. I don't think he looked at it as time away, but as time he was doing his duty and doing it for his family. I think that men today feel the same way underneath a lot of times (tho there are times when they are workaholics). I think they just accept that they have to be gone to work to get the bills paid and do what they can for their families.
I really love the time Rosa and her father have to sit and talk about his life. It is a shame that her mother did not get to partake of it, but it is a sweet fellowship that we get to see, and his love for his family and his character comes through, where we previously had little idea of it.
I hadn't thought about Kunerick leaving Rosa alone to go. I guess he is chivalrous, in his own way. Maybe he just knew his fight was with her father. I know a lot of times they would have sought out the heir to kill, so she is fortunate in that! Or protected, I guess, by her heavenly father!
It will be interesting to see what becomes of their relationship and the trials they will face. I know that Rosa has a steady foundation laid by her Mother, and I am sure tragedy is right around the corner.
Thank you to Christina for guest-posting her discussion this week.
I had two wisdom teeth removed last week, and I am just getting over the pain, in addition to finalizing and helping SisterLisa in publishing GGM on June 1st, so we have been busy-busy!
I am loving this book though. I love the way Lamplighters show what living a life of Deuteronomy 6 looks like. The examples of living, walking and talking your faith to your children, instead of just using 'Bible stories' and other teachers to teach the Word is so refreshing. I love how it tells of Matilda walking with little Rosa. What a sweet picture of a lovely, Godly mother. I am going to reread that, just because it was so encouraging!
Please feel free to leave comments here, but also announce your discussion on your personal blog and invite your readers to share in it!
I enjoy the Lamplighter books immensely. This was a little slower at the start, but soon had me enraptured! Edelbert and Matilda sound like wonderfully devoted parents. I always marvel at the description of a person being pious. Would that we all would strive to be more pious and Christ-like!
I really enjoyed picturing Matilda’s method of introducing her daughter to God and His wonderful world. It was not in taking her to Sunday School, or in reading the pop culture books of the day, but instead of walking with her and talking with her day in and day out as we are instructed in Deuteronomy 6. It was in pointing out the wonders around them and drawing her heart to the truths of God’s presence. It was in investing a deep respect for the awesomeness of God into Rosa’s life! In this day and age we are so quick to look for an easy way to do things and even strive to delegate the remarkable task of raising children in the nurture and admonition of God to others. I would love to be more like Matilda and delight more in my duty to my children!
Through her mother’s diligent instruction Rosa learned the beloved words of the Scripture and to acknowledge God in all things and at all times. She also learned by her mother’s example to consider the needs of others before her own. She grew to be more like her mother in generosity and in tender kindness. The story of Rosa’s release of her own desires to bless a widowed mother was convicting and touching. There are so many times when I want things (or situations to be different) and feel frustrated at my inability to obtain them. If I were more like Rosa I would be not only happy with what I have, but willing to share what I have with those who are in greater need.
Rosa was often rewarded with fresh fruit from the garden and I was impressed that she knew to always ask before picking the flowers or partaking of any other delight. She was taught to be immediately obedient to any command and that so with a cheerful heart. Matilda was obviously a master at tying heart strings!
Rosa was taught not to revel in her outer beauty, but to endeavor to let Christ shine through her by means of a meek and quiet spirit. The reader is often reminded that not only were these lessons taught to young Rosa, but they were lived by her mother. I pray that my own example will be ever improving and impressing upon my own children’s hearts and minds.
Can you imagine the death of your mother? Even more injurious such a loss would be at the tender age of 14. Rosa was yet a very young lady when her mother became ill and died. It is a blessing that she was by that time so well-trained, but a tragedy that she was left with such a huge emptiness in the place that her mother had fully filled in the previous nearly decade and a half of her life. The bigger a role a person has in our lives, the more their absence is felt when they are gone!
Was it not touching how unselfish the mother was in her last moments? She did not express fear or pity for herself. On the contrary, she left her husband and daughter with such warmth and love and exhortation that they must have been encouraged even in the face of such a traumatic time. What a goal to have, to leave this world with a sense of the love of life in Christ rather than in the struggle with death.
Following her mother’s death, Rosa’s father became a bigger part of her life. Due to his frequent absences he had entrusted the greater portion of her upbringing to Matilda. Now he shares with Rosa a number of things including a story of an enemy and a friend of whom Matilda had little or no previous knowledge. Ironically, on that very day, the enemy’s wrath rose again against Edelbert after a long time of it having lain dormant. It is good that Edelbert had shared this story with Rosa just in time or she might have been impossibly confused by the sudden tragic seizure of her father by his enemy. This reminds me that we must constantly be preparing our children for that which they may need to face in the future. This will take a great deal of guidance from God!
I will be curious to see what adventures or tragedy may next befall the dear father and daughter. Will she lose her father now too? Will she ever see him again? What will become of the enemy and what will become of the friend of which the father spoke?
In the meantime, may I remember to refrain from self-pity and be singular in my daily tasks. May my priority be to point each of my children Heavenward to a relationship with God and also heart ward to a relationship with their father and me. I challenge each of you to do the same… build the family that God has placed YOU in with an urgency towards preparation and to do so with both reverence AND delight!
I love this book!!! I read the whole thing when it arrived, and though it took me a bit to get used to the way it's worded, I was soon hooked!!
Tonight I started reading it to my girls. They seem to like it, and I'm hoping that they pick up on the great things that this book has to offer, such as complete obedience to parents.
I also took stuff from the book as well, such as the way Matilda taught Rosa about God, and helping other people.
I have written my comments on Chapters 1-3 on my blog. I hope we haven't already moved on to other chapters, because if we are following the schedule in the previous post I am WAY behind! :)
Here is a list of some of the vocabulary words from Chapter One of Rosa.
The definitions are below. Though these words were chosen from Chapter One, this will make an excellent list for any time throughout the book.
All definitions from the Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary online:
http://1828.mshaffer.com *unless otherwise noted.
*vales:
n.
A valley, often coursed by a stream; a dale.
[Middle English, from Old French val, from Latin valls; see wel-2 in Indo-European roots.]
dilapidated:
pp. Wasted; ruined; pulled down; suffered to go to ruin.
approbation:
n. [L. approbatio. See Proof and Prove.]
1. The act of approving; a liking; that state or disposition of the mind, in which we assent to the propriety of a thing, with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction; as, the laws of God require our approbation.
2. Attestation; support; that is, active approbation, or action in favor of what is approved.
3. The commendation of a book licensed or permitted to be published by authority, as was formerly the case in England.
piety:
n. [L. pietas, from pius, or its root, probably a contracted word.]
1. Piety in principle, is a compound of veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being and love of his character, or veneration accompanied with love; and piety in practice, is
the exercise of these affections in obedience to his will and devotion to his service.
Piety is the only proper and adequate relief of decaying man.
2. Reverence of parents or friends, accompanied with affection and devotion to their honor and happiness.
virtues:
n. vur'tu. [L. virtus, from vireo, or its root. See Worth.] The radical sense is strength, from straining, stretching, extending. This is the primary sense of L. vir, a man.]
1. Strength; that substance or quality of physical bodies, by which they act and produce effects on other bodies. In this literal and proper sense, we speak of the virtue or virtues of plants in medicine, and the virtues of drugs. In decoctions, the virtues of plants are extracted. By long standing in the open air, the virtues are lost.
2. Bravery valor. This was the predominant signification of virtus among the Romans.
Trust to thy single virtue.
[This sense is nearly or quite obsolete.]
3. Moral goodness; the practice of moral duties and the abstaining from vice, or a conformity of life and conversation to the moral law. In this sense, virtue may be, and in many instances must be, distinguished from religion. The practice of moral duties merely from motives of convenience, or from compulsion, or from regard to reputation, is virtue, as distinct from religion. The practice of moral duties from sincere love to God and his laws, is virtue and religion. In this sense it is true,
That virtue only makes our bliss below.
Virtue is nothing but voluntary obedience to truth.
4. A particular moral excellence; as the virtue of temperance, of chastity, of charity.
Remember all his virtues.
5. Acting power; something efficacious.
Jesus, knowing that virtue had gone out of him, turned - Mark 3.
6. Secret agency; efficacy without visible or material action.
She moves the body which she doth possess,
Yet no part toucheth, but by virtue's touch.
7. Excellence; or that which constitutes value and merit.
- Terence, who thought the sole grace and virtue of their fable, the sticking in of sentences.
He used to travel through Greece by virtue of this fable, which procured him reception in all the towns.
10. Legal efficacy or power; authority. A man administers the laws by virtue of a commission.
In virtue, in consequence; by the efficacy or authority.
This they shall attain, partly in virtue of the promise of God, and partly in virtue of piety.
*campaigns n. 1. A series of military operations undertaken to achieve a large-scale objective during a war: Grant's Vicksburg campaign secured the entire Mississippi for the Union.
2. An operation or series of operations energetically pursued to accomplish a purpose: an advertising campaign for a new product; a candidate's political campaign.
intr.v. cam·paigned, cam·paign·ing, cam·paigns
To engage in an operation planned to achieve a certain goal: campaigned through the jungles of Vietnam; campaigned for human rights.
[French campagne, from Italian campagna, field, military operation, from Late Latin campnia, open country, battlefield, from Latin campus, field.]
ardent: a.
1. Hot; burning; that causes sensation of burning; as, ardent spirits, that is distilled spirits; an ardent fever.
2. Having the appearance of quality of fire; fierce; as ardent eyes.
3. Warm, applied to the passions and affections; passionate; affectionate; much engaged; zealous; as, ardent love or vows; ardent zeal.
benevolence:
n. [L. benevolentia, of bene, well and volo, to will or wish. See Will.]
1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love,of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness.
The benevolence of God is one of his moral attributes; that attribute which delights in the happiness of intelligent beings. "God is love." 1 John 4.
2. An act of kindness; good done; charity given.
3. A species of contribution or tax illegally exacted by arbitrary kings of England.
incomprehensible:
a.
1. That cannot be comprehended or understood; That is beyond the reach of human intellect; inconceivable. The nature of spiritual being is incomprehensible to us, or by us.
2. Not to be contained. [Little used.]
thatched: pp. Covered with straw or thatch.
imitation: n. [L. imitatio; imitor, to imitate.]
1. The act of following in manner, or of copying in form; the act of making the similitude of any thing, or of attempting a resemblance. By the imitation of bad men or of evil examples, we are apt to contract vicious habits. In the imitation of natural forms and colors,we are often unsuccessful. Imitation in music, says Rousseau, is a reiteration of the same air, or of one which is similar, in several parts where it is repeated by one after the other, either in unison, or at the distance of a fourth, a fifth, a third, or any interval whatever. Imitation in oratory, is an endeavor to resemble a speaker or writer in the qualities which we propose to ourselves as patterns.
2. That which is made or produced as a copy; likeness; resemblance. We say, a thing is a true imitation of nature.
3. A method of translating, in which modern examples and illustrations are used for ancient, or domestic for foreign, or in which the translator not only varies the words and sense,but forsakes them as he sees occasion.
provision: n. s as z. [L. provisio, provideo. See Provide.]
1. The act of providing or making previous preparation.
2. Things provided; preparation; measures taken beforehand, either for security, defense or attack, or for the supply of wants. We make provision to defend ourselves form enemies; we make provision for war; we make provision for a voyage or for erecting a building; we make provision for the support of the poor. Government makes provision for its friends.
3. Stores provided; stock; as provision of victuals; provision of materials.
4. Victuals; food; provender; all manner of eatables for man and beast; as provisions for the table or for the family; provisions for an army.
5. Previous stipulation; terms or agreement made, or measures taken for a future exigency.
In the law, no provision was made to abolish the barbarous customs of the Irish.
salvation: n. [L. salvo, to save.]
1. The act of saving; preservation from destruction, danger or great calamity.
2. Appropriately in theology, the redemption of man from the bondage of sin and liability to eternal death, and the conferring on him everlasting happiness. This is the great salvation.
Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. 2Cor. 7.
3. Deliverance from enemies; victory. Ex. 14.
4. Remission of sins, or saving graces. Luke 19.
5. The author of man's salvation. Ps. 27.
6. A term of praise or benediction. Rev. 19.
husbandman: n. A farmer; a cultivator or tiller of the ground; one who labors in tillage. In America, where men generally own the land on which they labor,the proprietor of a farm is also a laborer or husbandman; but the word includes the lessee and the owner.
1. The master of a family. [Not in use in America.]
Saviour:
n. savyur. One that saves or preserves; but properly applied only to Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, who has opened the way to everlasting salvation by his obedience and death, and who is therefore called the Savior, by way of distinction, the Savior of men, the Savior of the world. General Washington may be called the saver, but not the savior of his country.
widowed: pp.
1. Bereaved of a husband by death.
2. Deprived of some good; stripped.
Trees of their shriveld fruits are widowd.
destitute: a. [L. To set. Literally, set from or away.]
1. Not having or possessing; wanting; as destitute of virtue, or of peity; destitute of food and clothing. It differs from deprived, as it does not necessarily imply previous possession.
2. Needy; abject; comfortless; friendless.
He will regard the prayer of the destitute. Ps. 102.
n. One who is without friends or comfort.
v.t.
1. To forsake.
2. To deprive.
gratitude: n. [L. gratitudo, from gratus, pleasing. See Grace.]
An emotion of the heart, excited by a favor or benefit received; a sentiment of kindness or good will towards a benefactor; thankfulness. Gratitude is an agreeable emotion, consisting in or accompanied with good will to a benefactor,and a disposition to make a suitable return of benefits or services, or when no return can be made, with a desire to see the benefactor prosperous and happy. Gratitude is a virtue of the highest excellence, as it implies a feeling and generous heart, and a proper sense of duty.
The love of God is the sublimest gratitude.
cultivate: v.t. [L., to till, to dwell.]
1. To till; to prepare for crops; to manure, plow, dress, sow and reap; to labor on manage and improve in husbandry; as, to cultivate land; to cultivate a farm.
2. To improve by labor or study; to advance the growth of; to refine and improve by correction of faults, and enlargement of powers or good qualities; as, to cultivate talents; to cultivate a taste for poetry.
3. To study; to labor to improve or advance; as, to cultivate philosophy; to cultivate the mind.
4. To cherish; to foster; to labor to promote and increase; as, to cultivate the love of excellence; to cultivate gracious affections.
5. To improve; to meliorate, or to labor to make better; to correct; to civilize; as, to cultivate the wild savage.
6. To raise or produce by tillage; as, to cultivate corn or grass.
ornament: n. [L. ornamentum, from orno, to adorn. Varro informs us that this was primitively osnamentum; but this is improbable. See Adorn.]
1. That which embellishes; something which, added to another thing, renders it more beautiful to the eye.
The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, the bonnets and the ornaments of the legs - Is. 3.
2. In architecture, ornaments are sculpture or carved work.
3. Embellishment; decoration; additional beauty.
- The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price. 1Peter 3.
v.t. To adorn; to deck; to embellish.
imbibe:
v.t. [L. imbibo; in and bibo, to drink.]
1. To drink in; to absorb; as, a dry or porous body imbibes a fluid; a sponge imbibes moisture.
2. To receive or admit into the mind and retain; as, to imbibe principles; to imbibe errors. Imbibing in the mind always implies retention, at least for a time.
3. To imbue, as used by Newton; but he has not been followed.
excellent: a. Being of great virtue or worth; eminent or distinguished for what is amiable, valuable or laudable; as an excellent man or citizen; an excellent judge or magistrate.
1. Being of great value or use, applied to things; remarkable for good properties; as excellent timber; an excellent farm; an excellent horse; excellent fruit.
2. Distinguished for superior attainments; as an excellent artist.
3. Consummate; complete; in an ill sense.
Elizabeth was an excellent hypocrite.
I hope this is a help to you if you are sharing this great little story with your children!
By now you have surely received your copy of Rosa of Linden Castle.
This particular read contains 20 chapters in 156 pages. We are going to work at a mild pace, reading about 30 pages a week. That comes to approximately 3 chapters a week.
We will be posting our discussion on this blog each Wednesday. You are not obligated to post a discussion. If you like, you can read along with us and just comment on the post. We have, in times past, posted discussions in the comments. If you prefer to post your discussion on your blog and comment on the discussion here, that is fine. We would appreciate if you want to leave a link in the comments for anyone to read your discussion if you do post it on your blog. Post it whenever you can, and let us know on the discussion post for that week.
Even if you do not post a big discussion, please try to post something on your blog each week about the discussion, just to let your readers know about this fantastic little book. Of course this is not mandatory, I just think it will encourage others to join us for the discussion, and who better to join us than your readers?
[EDIT] Since we went on a two-week vacation, we have had to modify the schedule]
Here is the discussion/posting schedule for Rosa of Linden Castle:
Chapters 1-3: June 25th
Chapters 4-6: July 2nd
Chapters 7-10: July 9th
Chapters 11-13: July 16
Chapters 14-17: July 23
Chapters 18-20: July 30
We plan to select and announce our next read SOON to give you plenty of time to order it and plan ahead.
We do plan to start the discussion of our next read on August 20th, which will coincide with a new school year, if you wish to read it for your homeschool.
We are SO excited that you will be joining us for this read! We look forward to discussing chapters 1-3 with you.
Any questions? Email us or just leave it in the comments.
You are most welcome to join in the discussion. Feel free to jump in.
If you have a place to post your review of the book, please leave us a link. You do not have to post a review on this blog. A few words of discussion are just fine and most welcome.
:)
The book Rosa of Linden Castle is set in the southern borders of Swabia, a country famed for its blooming vales, its mighty mountain ranges, and its lofty glaciers. In days of old stood the Castle of Linden on towering cliffs of a rugged mountain.
The Players: Rosa: The main character of the story; a sweet and pious little girl at the beginning of the stroy, she matures through trials and hardships and following her parents' admonishments as the story is told.
Matilda: Rosa's Christian mother, who is her main teacher for her early years. Her kindness to the poor, piety and intelligence, gained the her esteem and regard of all around her.
Edelbert: Rosa's father, a noble and valiant knight underneath whose iron beat a warm and benevolent heart, who is always away from his family in service to the Duke.
Burkhard, the Collier: A faithful friend and servant to Edelbert and then to Rosa.
Kunerick: The villain of the story; a mortal enemy of Edelbert and Burkhart.
Agnes: Burkhard's, the Collier, pleasant and good-natured daughter.
The Duke of Swabia: The Duke in whose service Edelbert is a knight.
Sorry everyone about not announcing the winner of the book yet. Caleb decided we needed another ER visit on Wednesday, so we weren't able to get this on.
We are so excited to see so many people joining us for our next discussion! We can't wait to begin... but first things first. Without further adieu I give you the winner of Rosa of Linden Castle, who was chose by Isaac, and it is:
We haven't received our books yet, but we hope to start the discussion by next Wednesday. Let us know if you have received your books yet. We will hopefully have ours soon! The Daily Planet
Ahhh, you will have to give Isaac a big hug for me!!! I'm so happy I won!! Was wondering where I would come up with the money to order the book, now I don't have too!!
Okay, so is there anything I need to do now??
Thank you soooooo much, and I'm very excited to get started!!
Because we have had such a hard time choosing what book to read next from all the great Lamplighters, we asked one of our readers to help us. Eyebright gave us 3 titles she liked and since one of them was one we had picked out last time, we decided on that.
So our next read is: Rosa of Linden Castle
In this unique von Schmid classic, a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
Author:Christoph von Schmid Written in: 1845 Pages: 163
We are excited about this read and hope to have you join with us as we read and discuss Rosa of Linden Castle.
There is a Mr. Linky you can sign, so we know that you will be joining us! We want you to join so much that we are giving away a copy of Rosa of Linden Castle to one reader who signs the Mr. Linky. We will give you a week and then next Wednesday we will announce who the lucky reader is!
These books are such little treasures with such powerful and eye-opening messages, we don't want you to miss out!
So sign the linky and commit to read another great book with us, and your name will be put in the drawing to win a copy of our next read, Rosa of Linden Castle! We have also found that these books make wonderful family read-alouds. They are greatly enjoyed and understood by children of all ages! The Daily Planet
Yay! I can't wait to get started. I think part of the reason I like to read these books, is because of the way they look! They are so nostaligic looking.
Anyway,
Have a very bright, very cheerful day!
Eyebright
I don't always get a chance to comment....well, I really don't comment at all these days on the discussion - life is crazy - but I am reading the books along with you!
I've only just discovered this club, and I'm really pleased to find you!
I love the painting at the top of the page, by the way - La Leseuse (sp?) by Fragonard. I grew up with a print of that painting in our living room, and now I have a print of my own. I'm just building up a library to put it in!
I would like to thank Amanda and Christina for leading the entire discussion of Helen's Temper for the past month. I am just onto chapter 4, and I cannot believe how horribly mean Helen is. I mean, seriously. I am astonished. At first, I could not understand why Helen's mother is oblivious to Helen's temper, but then I had to think about the fact that she does seem to suspect something and seems distressed over it.
I do know how it is to see one of our children acting out in a sinful manner and not be able to control it. Sometimes, not even knowing how to address it. In Helen's Temper, Helen has fooled many. She and her prideful, snippy friends are just manipulative bullies who have not yet been caught. We all know children like this. We know Christians who behave this way, boys and girls... men and women. We have probably acted this way in some manner at some time in our lives. The question is, did we mature? The question about Helen is, "Is she really spiritually mature?".
On the outside, she appears spiritually mature, but on the inside, she is hateful, vengeful and downright nasty. Off to read the rest of the book.... I hope she matures.
Chapter 10
As we start this week's discussion, we find out that Louisa is deathly ill. More ill than we were made to think in the previous chapter. Little Betty is waiting on her little friend and spending as much time as she can with her.
We also see that Helen is still suffering from her conscience. She is in a very dangerous position with her spirituality right now. Now is the turning point of whether she is going to heed that little conscience or if she is going to ignore it. If she chooses to ignore it, she is going to have a REALLY hard time getting herself out of that habit. When I was younger, just a few years ago, I was ignoring the Holy Spirit and my conscience. I was so far gone and I am still dealing with repercussion of it. I still have a hard time not ignoring my conscience and the Holy Spirit. But by the grace of God I am coming back to hearing and knowing when the Holy Spirit is leading me!
A scripture that comes to mind through this ordeal is:
Numbers 32:23 But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.
I think a lot of times, we really do think that we can get away with our sin. Sometimes we do, but it is only for a time. Eventually, all our sin comes out. Whether it will be here on earth or when we all rise and go to heaven.
I can tell that Grandfather is on the verge of something for Helen and I am sure everyone is going to know what happened. It is going to be sad to see how it plays out though.
OH YAY! Louisa is sitting up and doing better! Thank God! I was thinking last week when I read that she was just kinda wanting to die that maybe she wasn't getting better because she didn't want to. I am glad to read that she is "going to try and get well".
It is really sad to me that Grandfather Holt had to question little Louisa like that, but like he said, :"But for Helen's future, I must persevere.".He had to find out because he NEEDS to talk to Helen. This is a really big deal and it NEEDS to be taken care of.
I felt the tears coming as I read that part about Grandfather Holt turning his head to hide his tears. To read her innocent thoughts about life and death and to know that his granddaughter was the one to bring Louisa to this point, must have just torn him up! I wonder if he felt any remorse for not being more of a spiritual guide for Helen.
Chapter 11
From the title of this chapter I have a feeling that Grandfather's Story is going to be Helen's story only told as an allegory. I can relate to Helen in her feeling the dread she is feeling from this invitation. In the above mentioned state of my life, I had many invitations like Helen has just received. I know what she is going through.
I was even like Helen in the fact of her unforgiveness. I would not have gone and asked forgiveness of those I had sinned against. That did not help the situation either.
Oh I love this part of the chapter: "Helen was growing more familiar with sin; every hour that she indulged in deceit was leaving its mark on her character. How powerful! Every second, every minute, every hour we wait to ask forgiveness of sin, is a second, a minute, an hour that we become more accustomed to it. It is just something that becomes a part of us. It sticks and it is hard to unstick!
Grandfather Holt is very wise and sees a lot. Not just physically stuff, but also spiritual. He is very discerning. Grandfather Holt's story is a little more like the actual story than I would have thought he would do. But obviously it got the point across! This is a shock to see Helen like this! WOW! Maybe she really is sorry for her actions. Oh wait... never mind. I had to know this was coming, "Ask God to forgive me?" "And then Louisa." "What! That little brat?". I sure wish she would decide whether she wants to be who she is supposed to or if she really doesn't care. But that is how all of us humans are, I suppose. Wanting to be who we are supposed to be in the Lord, but our flesh gets the better of us most of the time.
Ah... finally we see some hope in Helen. She really does want to be Godly and lovely! I think she is at the point where she can't stand herself anymore and just wants to be rid of this wronging and become who she is supposed to.
Chapter 12
Ok... where is the kleenex when I need it! WAH! This chapter is already turning out to be so beautifully sad! Poor Louisa!
There is not words I can say right now.. only tears as we read about Louisa's departure. What a blessing it is to be the one to go to heaven before your family and friends. Knowing that you will be healed and that you will get to see the Savior!
Louisa's farewell to everyone was so sweet! I bet everyone was wishing they could go with her! The Daily Planet
Wasn’t it sweet how even when Louisa was well Betty spent every holiday ministering to her and being a blessing?Some people avoid tragedy, but even during this time Betty never wavered in her spirit of kindness towards her little friend. Likewise, Helen’s attitude had not changed much. The consensus was that this tragedy would be the last one for Louisa.She was not improving at all before this trauma, but this was the “final straw”. I
In times of tragedy, can I focus outward instead of inward and determine to bless those around me, rather than seeking a blessing for myself?
I was relieved that Grandfather Holt had not let Helen’s odd behavior pass by him unnoticed. He had not only discerned that something was certainly amiss, but had precisely pin-pointed the cause of it by this time. His private conversations with Louisa served to confirm his suspicions.
The joy of the gift was greatly overshadowed by the need for this dialogue. My heart ached for Louisa, but Mr. Holt persisted out of his desire not only for justice to be served towards Louisa, but in the knowledge that Helen MUST be corrected in order to be redirected to the right path! In order to be this diligent with our children this will involve being close enough to them to be able to discern when something is amiss! In what ways can I know my children well enough to be in tune with their rough spots so that I may be actively in the process of refining them?
I had previously said that I wondered WHY Louisa kept this secret. I wept to realize that, even now, her love for her friend was so great that she was willing to sacrifice her own rights to protect Betty.There are few that I know that would be so unselfish. Most people demand what they feel is right and just and even justify their own wrong actions when they have been wronged or feel entitled to a privilege or compensation of some type.
When I am wronged, can I learn to be more Christ-like and less demanding of what I perceive are MY rights? How might this look in practice?
Grandfather’s confrontation of Helen was both wise and kind.He spoke in what is akin to a parable, not unlike the method Jesus so often employed with his disciples in the gospels.Helen was reduced to begging her grandfather’s pity and to be spared the continuation of the tale. Even at this point she shockingly refused to apologize to the injured child to whom she referred as a “brat”!Can you imagine the wickedness and folly in this young lady’s heart that she would blurt out such an accusation after all that had happened? Eventually, her Grandfather convinced Helen of her need for Christ’s forgiveness and while we are told her transformation was not immediate; we do see evidence of a change of heart, at length.
We must have courage to hold accountable those we love.This will involve a prayerful wisdom and a commitment to follow-through.How can I sensitively and wisely challenge someone I love?
Louisa’s final scenes were indeed bittersweet.Tears flowed freely and I found it difficult to keep my composure long enough to finish reading the last chapter to my children.Louisa had no fear of death and she sought to comfort those she knew would be saddened by her passing.Louisa was unselfish and free from self-pity to the very end.
May I be prepared to meet Jesus when my life is over.May I have more reasons to rejoice than to regret.What tangible steps can I take to ensure this end? The Perils of Parenting and Other Ponderings
What a POWERFUL story we have just read. It brings tears to my eyes! Let us always remember Helen's wise words. "For I have reason to sorrow bitterly, through a long life, over giving way to my temper, and the sad consequences it produced!"
Let us remember:
Ephesians 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.
I am not typically a crier for things that are really truly sad, but I sure did feel like crying during the last part of this book!
Even though the title of this book was about a "temper" it also delt with many other things, such as lying, deciet, envy, and so on.
How terribly true that the longer you continue in sin, the less shocked, hurt, or troubled you are by it. Then, you come to a crisis, when you either decide to keep going the way you are, downward, or to take the long hike back up to righteousness.
I really don't know what else to say, other than that I loved this sweet little story, and I hope it will sink into my thick, dense head.
I can't wait to see what the next book is, and I hope that I can participate!
Wow, what a great little story. I am glad that I had the opportunity to read it.
I was convicted by Helen's character. Her temper, her desire to impress her friends at any cost, her ability to fool those closest to her. I was reminded how important it is not to ignore our concious. For every time gets a little bit easier until we don't hear it anymore.
I was also convicted by Betty's character. Her tender heart, her loyalty to her friend, her perserverance. She was a loving daughter, a true friend, a sincere Christian. She didn't quit when things got difficult.
This story has touched me. In reminding me what I don't want to be, but also in inspiring me to what I would love to be.
Welcome to HSB Literary Club. Please join us in reading Rosa of Linden Castle by Christoph von Schmid. Written in 1845, this unique von Schmid classic tells of a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
To get started, click on the book icon and get yours ordered today!
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