Threads

This is so timely, I’m reposting it. I wrote it in March, before the election and it’s implications were a topic of daily obsession. I mean it even more now than I did then.

music maven October 31, 2008 / 11:36 am

You know, I have stressed over this very type of thing for over 17 years. From the time I was first pregnant, I always prayed for this child of ours to be an honest, kind, caring person respectful of all others. We felt that if we could accomplish that, then “good” would come and he would have great favor with all he came in contact with.

While we are miles from perfect, we have tried to be consistent in our views and expectations, firm in our discipline, and demonstrative in our love for him and each other. We tried to encourage him to be his own man and go against the flow when he didn’t feel it was right or was against his own comfort zone. We endured with him through bullying and being left out by some with much less caring parents.

Of course, I had my doubts that he would be able to avoid the evils and temptations that lurk around every corner, but this kid continues to prove me wrong.

I try not to be naive and blinded by my love for him, i.e., “keepin’ it real”, BUT…so far, he’s proven to be honest, caring, kind, tolerant, and level-headed in crisis. And, he’s very respectful of others (except me sometimes, but that’s the “parent” thing, I think). He’s well-liked by peers and teachers, and looks to have a bright future ahead of him. Sure, he’s messy and lazy when it comes to chores, but that too, he’s likely learned by example.

My mother is a bit nuts, but she always told me to teach your children through your own life and actions. This is where they learn to be “well-adjusted” or fodder for the shrink’s couch. Show them love and they will love. Show them kindness and they will show kindness.

We are their mirrors. For the most part, they will become what we show them through our every day lives over the course of their childhood and adolescence. I think Little Man will do just fine considering his examples…if you can just keep Zan remembering, “NO beating, NO beating, NO beating….”