postlaestadianrevival

We all had parents, many of us are parents, and most of us have noticed how other parents manage. While there are some OALC families that manage their offspring well, it seems like there were a significant number of them which had a less vigilant approach to parenting. Children are often allowed to run free around the church property after services without adult supervision. Some of them are very young. I recall hearing about an incident years ago where a toddler was found with tire marks on his head in the parking lot at meeting time.

There seems to be an attitude among many church members that if their children or teens are with other "christians" that there is no need to worry. The teens will meet en mass at some public place, not realizing or not caring how their numbers affect other citizens who may also be present. Most of the teens smoke. Some are rude. Clearly the parents are not teaching their kids how to behave in public. Maybe they are just too tired, or maybe they were not taught themselves.

When I was a young parent I wanted desperately to do things right. I would ask for council from the "older understanding ones" but I did not get much help. When we found a new church, we were helped by a parenting class offered there. It was a godsend.

I am still imperfect and so are my kids, but we have made some progress. Though they are all in their teens I can happily say they know how to behave in public (I just hope they practice what they know!)

Soapbox, you have very well-behaved kids who are a delight to be around. You & your husband have an admirable relationship with
your kids: you listen to them & value their opinions. You enjoy
being together as a family. God has blessed your efforts to raise
them in a loving and godly way!

Aahhhh. God is good! I think it is evidence of his mercy, the delightful children he has given me. My youngest likes to go to school an hour or more early to exercise. She wakes me up and mixes me up my favorite instant coffee drink for the drive. Her thoughtfulness is something God gave her--to benefit me. His care for me astounds me. And thank you Free at Last for the kind words.