Treasure hunts build anticipation, turning a simple search into an adventure. That mindset of one clue leading to another until you reach the ultimate reward isn’t just for children—it can be a valuable approach to life itself.
When my children were young, I occasionally traveled for work, and one particular business trip often coincided with St. Patrick’s Day. Although our last name is McKinney, our celebrations were typically limited to wearing green or enjoying a plate of fish and chips. Then my husband had a brilliant idea—introducing Lucky the Leprechaun. Like a mischievous Irish counterpart to Santa Claus, Lucky would visit and leave a treasure for the kids. They were delighted, and the tradition carried on from our older children to our youngest son and now to our grandson.
To add an extra element of excitement for my grandson, who recently turned 7, I introduced a treasure hunt. Instead of simply finding the prize, he has to follow a series of clues scattered around the house. One hint leads to another, each sending him running from room to room, until he finally reaches a stash of gold-foil chocolate coins.
Yesterday, in anticipation of St. Patrick’s Day coinciding with our weekly noodle night, I asked him if he remembered Lucky. He nodded but added, rather seriously, that he didn’t like his jokes. Puzzled, I asked what he meant. He clarified that he didn’t like the clues. Why couldn’t the chocolates just be there? Why all the extra steps? I explained that figuring out clues and interpreting hints is part of the fun. The treasure is exciting, but the adventure leading to it makes the reward even sweeter.
I’m not sure if he agrees, but he’s still game to play along, and that is a treasured lesson for all ages.
In the Two Minutes Du Jour adult version of this, I realize how much life mirrors a treasure hunt. We rarely get what we want instantly; instead, we follow signs, make choices, and adapt as we move forward. The path isn’t always straight, and sometimes the clues are tricky, but each step builds anticipation and shapes our experience. If we embrace the zigzagging, rather than just longing for the endpoint, we might find that the adventure itself brings the riches.
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One response to “Embrace Life’s Treasure Hunt: Lessons from St. Patrick’s Day”
Your insights always are spot on!! Love your connection to the ‘adult version’ of the treasure hunt! Great reminder to enjoy all the clues and the journey itself, not just the treasure at the end! Thanks and happy St. Pat’s day! Hope your grandson enjoyed all of it!
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