Thoughts for the Week:

Celebrations are special times. We human beings have unique ways of celebrating events that are important to us. Sometimes we like to have people celebrate with us, but other times our celebrations are more private. When children celebrate things like birthdays or holidays, they sometimes become so overwhelmed with feelings that they need a trusting adult to help them manage the strong feelings they have. They sometimes wonder, "Will no one remember my birthday?" or "Will this celebration be everything I expected?"

As we help children manage the feelings of doubt as well as the feelings of joy, we show them that it's all right to have feelings - and to tell people about them, even if the feelings aren't those they expect to have on a joyous occasion.

Music has always been an important part of celebrations. Through music, children often find ways to express a whole range of feelings - from sadness and anger to joy and peace. The programs this week feature music and an opera -- our way of celebrating with our television friends.