I grew up in a big family, where the word “copycat” was rarely considered a term of endearment or fun. Usually it meant someone in the family was trying to be independent or unique, dress her own way, or express his opinion while another sibling insisted on imitating his or her every move. The expression “copycat” often was followed by words like this: “You are driving me crazy!” “Stop copying me!” “That was my thing first!”
Fast forward to today, when I’m living with a 1-year-old. Now the term “copycat” means something entirely different. It’s darling, hilarious, and endearing as my daughter listens to and copies most everything I say. For her, it’s all about learning. She wants to be big, she wants to learn words, and she thoroughly enjoys following me around and imitating everything I do. As a mother, I find that charming. Yet it’s extremely sobering as I realize she is constantly watching me and learning from me. And I have to be honest with myself; she is learning both the good and the bad!
Recently, I have been challenged by this realization: In order to teach my little “copycat,” I also need to return to being a “copycat” myself. In the way I live out my everyday life, I desperately want to become an imitator of Christ so that instead of just learning about me, my daughter also is learning about Him.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
– Ephesians 5:1-2, NIV
Sarah LeBlanc
Great Lakes Field Director
Inspiration