Daughters and Sons

 

I wish that teaching our daughters and sons all of these things was easy.  However, if it was easy, our children would naturally absorb these behaviors and understand their importance.  We are all different and our youth changes from generation to generation.  Today, we live in a world of disposable marriages.  More marriages fail than succeed because it takes too much work to save it.  For a lot of people, it's easier to move on, start over, and forget.

I am divorced.  For me, it wasn't an easy choice.  There were many things that had gone on within the boundaries of my marriage that I won't share as they would be damaging in print, however, communication was a key factor.  We were unable to resolve our problems because he refused to discuss them.  In fact, he would leave the premises and expect my "fit" to be over by the time he returned.  When the next argument rolled around, he couldn't understand why I threw the old arguments into the new one.  It was a vicious cycle in which we eventually walked away from, leaving our two young boys with a divorced parent status.

However, I do believe that the boys became stronger men because of it.  They were able to view their mother putting her foot down as to what she would and wouldn't endure.  I'm not perfect.  I've made a lot of mistakes along the way and will continue to do so.  But both of my boys have families now and they love their wives and treat them with respect.  Along the way, I taught them the art of communication and the importance of it in relationships.  I waited ten years (dating several men in the process) before meeting the right one.  I know that the willingness of my husband's love and attention helped my boys view what a healthy relationship looks like.  Not to mention, my parents relationship which is approaching 50 years next month.  (Congratulations!)

Our children are our future.  As we grow older, they will step into leadership roles around the world.  My prayer is that we teach and they learn the importance of loving and respecting one another.  It is our duty as parents.  I know some of you are saying to me that this is impossible, your child is lost or troubled or incapable, and that may be true.  But at some point, if you keep trying, your words, your actions, and your love will get through.  You may not even realize it when it happens.  Stick to your gut, be the best parent that you can be, and pray.  Our children need us now more than ever.