It was on my heart...
A recent conversation with family inspired this post. The conversation was basically about what people, kids, or others don't need to know and others, in the family, making that decision. This conversation reminded me of a book I read a few years ago. The main goal of the book, to me, was to highlight the detriment of family secrets. The book was a very quick (about 77 pgs) read. To try and give perspective without giving away the entire plot, I will tell you that the book is about a young girl who never knew her father because her mother insisted on keeping it from her. When the girl turned 18, she went looking for her father and found much more than anyone could have expected. Now, why am I talking about this book? Because it reminds me of so many conversations that I have had and will have about things people (including myself) just don't know about their families, friends, neighbors.
As adults and heads of families, the best things we can do for our children is educate them. Most people would agree with this statement. However, when I say it, I mean educate them on everything, not just the stuff that will make them money or that is taught in school. I am talking about the aunt that steals money or puts people in illegal situations, the cousin that is in a gang, the neighbor who takes an extreme liking to little girls, the sister that is bipolar. Especially tell them these things if there is a possibility that the child will be in contact with any of these people. Tell them the information that helps them maneuver through society. What we forget is that our children learn things like behavior and trust from us. If we are talking to the neighbor every day and inviting them to cookouts and such, our child won't see anything wrong with going to the neighbor's house without us.
Don't get me wrong, I understand that there are nosey people and gossips that just like to start stuff and be in everyone's business but we have to find a balance. It is imperative that we arm our children with the ability to make informed decisions in ALL aspects of life. You are never going to stop curiosity in people especially children, tell them the truth so they know what they are up against.
As adults and heads of families, the best things we can do for our children is educate them. Most people would agree with this statement. However, when I say it, I mean educate them on everything, not just the stuff that will make them money or that is taught in school. I am talking about the aunt that steals money or puts people in illegal situations, the cousin that is in a gang, the neighbor who takes an extreme liking to little girls, the sister that is bipolar. Especially tell them these things if there is a possibility that the child will be in contact with any of these people. Tell them the information that helps them maneuver through society. What we forget is that our children learn things like behavior and trust from us. If we are talking to the neighbor every day and inviting them to cookouts and such, our child won't see anything wrong with going to the neighbor's house without us.
Don't get me wrong, I understand that there are nosey people and gossips that just like to start stuff and be in everyone's business but we have to find a balance. It is imperative that we arm our children with the ability to make informed decisions in ALL aspects of life. You are never going to stop curiosity in people especially children, tell them the truth so they know what they are up against.
Comments
Post a Comment