Some More Linguistics

Another wonderful linguistic enrichment that comes through learning Portuguese, is how the words “criar” “criação” “criador” are used. This family of words has to do with the English words “create”, “creation” “Creator”. But, most interestingly, this same family of words are the ones that are used when you talk about bringing up a family. So a child is not reared, it is “criado” - created. The business of bringing up children is termed “criação” - creation. And the word for child - “criança” is itself derived from the same family of words - the thing created - this wonderful work of art we call a child.

Which all puts into a whole new perspective this business of bringing up a family. It’s a wonderful moment of creativity - and not just a moment - but a lifelong work of art. God’s creative art reflected in us through human fertility and growth. The child forms in the womb, comes to birth as a uniquely formed individual. The parent has this wonderful opportunity of shaping the young life into a thing of beauty. Something the Portuguese, with a culturally highly developed focus on the importance of family, are good at, as they invest lots of time and energy into bringing up their kids.

And something we also often mess up on and need to know a lot of Gods grace in our parenting. But thank God that he specialises in taking what has been messed up and making something new.

For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.