Family Bonds

Happy Father's day, my friends.

Family. Something we all have. Some of us have more than others. Some of us have brothers and/or sisters, others are single children. Whichever category you fall into, I hope these words of encouragement help you - and they're not only for kids, but parents also.

Boys:
   You're the men of the household. Act like it. This doesn't mean pushing your siblings around, or having bravado to the point of foolishness. Be discreet and wise.
   Respect your mom - respect, respect, respect. You don't question a thing she tells you to do - given that it's within scriptural bounds of behavior. She's the one who nursed you as a small child, changed your dirty diapers, loved you when you were quite unlovable. Hold her in a special place. Her gentle hand will always be there, until you or her meets Death.
   Your dad is your example to follow. Learn to be a handy man - girls love guys who know how to do stuff. (wink wink)
   As for your sisters, they deserve your respect as well. Don't stare at me like that - they are women, just as your mom is. Cherish them. Girls are precious flowers - and while some of them are quite tough flowers, they nonetheless only bloom with love and care. Protect them with your lives. If you see another boy picking on her, you give that sucker one warning. If he doesn't stop, you have my approval to call in the big guns (a.k.a. parents), and if even they can't deter him (which is unlikely) then you have full rights to light that predator up.
   Remember, all this is training for if/when you get married. Get romance tips now, when you can!

Girls:
   Gals, I'm male, and I am not the one to dictate how you should behave. I understand what is required of you in biblical standards, however. Be modest and gentle. Don't nag (that is VERY IMPORTANT). Your mother is your example. Learn to take care of younger children. Learn to be a good cook. Seriously, we boys have a lot of 'girls in the kitchen' jokes, but when it comes to that sort of thing, most of us would burn salads. We can't live without your cooking skills - honestly. If/when you get married, your husband will be head over heels for you if you are a good cook.
   Also, support your brothers in their protective roles. Allow them to be chivalrous and gentlemanly -encourage such behavior. It's their duty, and should be their pleasure.

Dads:
   You're the anchor of the family - without you, everyone is lost. Your strong hand guides your family's path - for good or ill. We boys look up to you, whether you think we do or not. Be good examples! We learn from you, so please be patient with us. Your girls love you; you're their shield and strong pillar. Keep a firm, loving hand on their shoulder. It goes a long way.
   As I'm writing this on father's day, let me take a moment to thank you so much for your hard work. You supply your families, lead your wife and children, and take care of technical difficulties when they spring up. It's a tough job. We salute you - and love you. Keep up the awesome work!

Moms:
   Moms are the chain that holds the boat to the anchor. Without it, the anchor is quite ineffective. Your selfless sacrifice - on duty, 24/7, for good or ill, is the highest of callings a woman can have. You have more time at home than Dad, and thus in some ways influence us children more.
   Keep that patience handy. We children blow it quite frequently - I would know! It's such a good example when you can bear with it and keep smiling as you clean up our mess. But as a different side to that, please don't get slack with discipline. That might sound weird coming from a kid like me, but when sentiment trumps love, children get rebellious. Don't take disrespect, ever. We kids are to respect you and Dad, and when that doesn't happen, sin is involved. I recommend one warning before you discipline, for graciousness' sake. Thanks so much for your gentle hand guiding us as we grow up - no one can replace you, Mom.


Parents, I am very sorry if I sound at all commanding here. I recognize that I have much to learn - and these are just my recommendations. They are fueled by biblical teachings (thanks Mom and Dad!), however, and I do think they warrant a little consideration. We children love you and need you. Thanks again for all you do.

Fellow children and siblings, I hope you'll take my advice to heart. I want only what's best for you - and remember, your parents do too. Don't hesitate to ask them about difficult things. They have a wealth of information, and they'd love to share it with you. Oh yeah, and in case you didn't get it, RESPECT THEM. That's R-E-S-P-E-C-T  T-H-E-M. They know better than you do. I'm looking especially at you, teenagers. They know better than you. Do not think they're outdated, or not with the times, or whatever. 'Cause to be honest with you, the times are pretty stupid.