Thursday; May 21


When you think back on your childhood, what stands out to you?  I am sure that each person will have their own remembrances; but two things immediately come to mind for me.  The first one is security.  I grew up in a family with two loving parents who dealt with day-to-day life with as little drama as possible.  Sure, we had problems – some of them were extremely painful – but, our family was a safe haven for us.  Religion, values and mutual support were the reliable foundations upon which we built our growth and development.  The other thing that comes to mind were the carefree days when children could be children.  We were allowed to explore, get dirty, take (limited) chances and enjoy the innocence of childhood.  Were there expectations for our behavior – yes!  Was there discipline when we stepped outside those expectations – oh yes!  Yet, the pressures placed on us were reasonable and allowed for the failure that provided positive growth and development.  Oh, by the way, while my parents were the central figures in shaping us, others were involved as well.  Our grandparents, neighbors, teachers, church member and countless others took an interest in our development and well-being.
What memories are we shaping for children today?  Will they look back on their childhood fondly?  No, raising children is not all about giving them what they want, it is about providing them with what they need to be successful in life.  As parents, as trusted adults and as a society, we have a responsibility to help our children become productive adults – are we do it?
Think About It!

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