Raising the Perfect Child

I wonder what the perfect child looks like. Is it a child that does everything we say they should do? Says yes ma'am and yes sir? A child that doesn't perpetually question your authority? Or try to convince you, you are a bad parent if you don't cave in to their demands?

I know I was nowhere near this child for my parents. I always went out of my way to not do what my parents said, or wait till the last minute to do my chores because I had other priorities (video games of course!). Yet when it was time to go hang out with friends and I needed money I some how felt I earned it. Now as I look back I ponder, "how selfish could I be?"

My late grandmother and late aunt would always tell me in the most serious of voices to "love and respect my mom and dad for all they have done for me." Back then I seemed to tune them out when ever I felt a lecture coming on... now I take every word seriously (or at least try).

As I reflect on all these issues thinking that sometimes being a parent must be really awesome. A mountain top type of experience! I could only imagine being a parent is exhausting and emotionally draining.

So with all this said and in the spirit of advent where we reflect on what it means to be expectant for a savior in the midst of all the things that are "not yets." I want to tell you how grateful am for all of you parents. How in awe and inspired I am with the depth of character so many of you carry. It shines through your kids even in the midst of their "imperfections" (or telling them ten times to do something). I know all your kids are "not there yet" but man do I have hope they will lead lives of greatness.

I heard recently I think it was on the Steve Harvey show of all places. And he said that some folks say don't put all your eggs in one basket. But on the contrary if you really believe in something and you believe that the foundation is there you have every right to put all your eggs in to one basket! I believe I can put all my eggs in to one basket!

I believe God is doing great things in the lives of families here at Pleasant Green UMC. And I celebrate you and your youth this Christmas. Today I am simply grateful... I couldn't ask for anything more.