In almost every aspect of life, when it comes to parenting our kids, it’s not a matter of “if” this or that happens, it’s “when.” I know I probably don’t need to remind you of this, but I want to. I want to because my heart is heavy over all the sadness and grief children and teens have to deal with in an up-close-and-personal kind of way. I want to because I know how easy it is to let our own problems and worries dictate how we react to our children, i.e., we mess up. And feel like a heel afterwards. You know what I’m talking about. You know…
• It’s not a matter of if you make a mistake as a parent…it’s a matter of when.
• It’s not a matter of if you ever have a “do as I say-not as I do” moment…it’s a matter of when.
• Most of you have children who go to school and see an empty desk where their friend and classmate used to sit. Before suicide changed that.
• Many of you have children or grandchildren who cry because their classmates make fun of them or make it known that they are unwanted just because they are slower, look different, or sound different.
• Your kids don’t understand why “everyone” is mad at “everyone” else and why saying things like “he” and “she” could get them in trouble.
• Society is trying to tell them that breaking the law is okay for some, but not others.
• Well, because of lots of reasons.
But you also know that as their parents, it is your job and your privilege to lovingly and unashamedly guide your children toward what is true and right. To empower them to handle the “when’s” in their life with confidence and courage, and to be the kind of person that makes this world a better place.
