Tuesday; November 7

Throughout the years I have spent a lot of time involved in the Juvenile Justice System. Now, before we go any further, let me go on record as saying that I appreciate the value of the rehabilitative system. I believe that, contrary to the adult system that is based on punishment, there is value in in trying to fix children while there is still time to help them become productive members of society. It is unreasonable to hold children accountable to a mature standard as their bodies and emotions are developing. Now, having said that, I am afraid that in our effort to protect children from the harshness of governmental standards, we have gone too far the other way. It has become too easy to excuse their choices and not hold them accountable for their actions. Sure, a good child-focused system is based upon multiple chances to learn, but there is an obligation to learn. We cannot be content with a system that is overloaded with free chances. There has to be a good blend of accountability with age-appropriate education.

Centuries ago, the Bible observed, “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he grows older he will not abandon it.” (Proverbs 22:6). Notice that the wise man didn’t tell us to ignore bad behavior; rather advocates appropriate disciple that would help children mature into productive citizens. Whether it is in our own homes, in our schools or even as a society, we need to be willing to help shape our children into the people they can be without hurting them physically or breaking their spirit. When we care enough about our children – and their future – to help them develop appropriately, we set them and future generations up for success.

Think About It!

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