On Saint Patrick’s Day the Irish celebrate their beloved saint Patrick. Patrick was born in Britain but was captured by the Irish who raided his family’s village and made him a slave in Ireland. He eventually escaped, but after many years he actually returned to Ireland to help the people who mistreated him. The Irish remember him to this day as someone who greatly helped their nation, and Herby’s joining in on this Irish celebration.

Even though Saint Patrick was mistreated by people, he was concerned for them and wanted to help them. Are there people you know that could benefit from your help?

Helping others is something we can all do. Look for ways to help people like Saint Patrick did for the Irish. You might even get kissed for it!

You are a unique person—and that’s okay! Every one of us is different. We have different colored hair, different colored eyes, and different shades of skin. We have different interests, different talents, and different personalities. You may feel like you need to be just like other people, because “everyone knows” that’s the way you should be. Everyone knows parrots want crackers, right? Well, fish-loving Herby has something else in mind for his snack.

What if everyone was exactly alike? Our unique qualities are what make us interesting and special. What are some things that make you you? What sorts of things do you like?

Many people want to be just like other people because it’s popular or “cool.” But you don’t have to be someone else—you can be you! You’re cool just the way you are. So be the person only you can be! Just don’t do anything that will get you into trouble. After all, Herby may want a fish, but will Jeremy let him have it?

You have a lot to do, and a lot of things happen to you every day, some good and some bad. What if someone let you know they cared by lending a helping hand, speaking a kind word, presenting you with an unexpected gift, or, as Herby does for Jeremy, simply giving you a hug?

What if you were the one letting someone know you cared about them? You have the power to help other people feel loved and appreciated with your kindness. What ways can you show them you care?

Sometimes it can be hard for us to think about other people, especially if we’re too busy thinking about ourselves all the time. It takes extra time and effort to let others know we care. But with our kindness, we have the power to make everything better.

When the temperature drops and snow starts to fall, what is it good for? Playing, of course! Snowmen, snow angels, sledding, snowball fights—nothing quite brings out the playfulness of children—and perhaps some adults—like snow. Even Herby has gotten caught up in the fun.

Not only is playing fun, but it helps us in many ways. Playing can be good for our emotions, our minds, or bodies, our spirits and our relationships with other people. What are we missing out on when we don’t take time to just have fun? What fun things do you like to do?

When the opportunity hits—say, in the form of a wintery, white wonderland of whimsy—take time out and go play! But be sure to dress warmly, don’t stay outside in the snow for too long, and avoid becoming a snowman yourself.