So do me and yourself a favor; think about the following and then decide the what, how and when you'll talk about this with your kids. Now I have to admit that there are many different ways for you to talk on this. I would offer up the following as one way to do so – would you agree or do differently? |
Second – before pursuing the talk that I want to have with my preteen, I'd look for recent examples to reference. For example our year of 2020 has so many issues and challenges (what to do or not to do for COVID-19, for the civil unrest, etc. which ignited many protests and problems).
Third – when ready, I'd then find the time and location to sit and talk with my preteen on what was happening across the country, asking how they view the issues, what they think is right and wrong, etc.
And as that talk unfolded, I'd share that wanting to understand the different sides of issues was good, that being involved to help change things for the better was good – but I would also talk of the dangers of getting caught up and in possibly doing more harmful actions vs helpful actions. Like the protest actions. During the day, they appear helpful but once night falls, it appears things get out of control and usually it is a few that start the trouble but then many get caught up and participate.
Which brings us back to why these words and this recommendation now. If we as parents don't make the time or have the talks with our kids on topics like honor – where will their thoughts be on this when they are caught up or pulled into situations when honor is most needed? My hope is that we as parents find the ways to help our kids to gain insights, to build up their character and to instill within them an embrace of honor.
And all of this can be linked to the question shown in the following image. I believe the answer is 'trouble' which is the gateway to regrets. Each of us need to beware of anger, frustration and entitlement because those can easily squelch compassion, respect and honor. Now the opportunity is for us to decide is if we will help our kids to be more aware of it and of our desires for them to pursue honorable lives. |
”Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.”