Things I Want to Share

I've read a few things lately that I have really felt moved to share. These two things have spoke volumes to me. The first came from my very last lesson in Esther, so this may sound familiar to some, and others may be reading it soon.

I believe in the sun, even when it is not shining.
I believe in love, even when I do not feel it.
I believe in God, even when He is silent.
(Author Unknown)

In the last few days, I have started a new bible study titled, "Becoming the Parent God Wants You to Be." It has taken me a while to get through the first chapter because it is very...I don't know the words to use--thought provoking, real, hitting home, really. It is meant to be a group study, so some of it is difficult because it gives you activities, but I'll get through it, I guess. I miss working in a group, but it is often difficult for me to commit to a group with Rhae. Anyway, in the first chapter of the study, the author, Dr. Kevin Leman, shares "A Child's 10 Commandments to Parents" from his book Parenthood Without Hassles--Well, Almost. These were disturbing to me, in a good way. They say a lot, and I dare any parent to say they can't identify with at least one of these:

I. My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball. My legs are short; please slow down so that I can keep up with you.

II. My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; plsease let me explore safely. Don't restrict me unnecessarily.

III. Housework will always be there. I'm only little for such a short time--please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.

IV. My feelings are tender; please be sensitive to my needs. Don't nag me all day long. (You wouldn't want to be nagged for your inquisitiveness.) Treat me as you would like to be treated.

V. I am a special gift from God; please treasure me as God intended you to, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and desciplining me in a loving manner.

VI. I need your encouragement, but not your praise, to grow. Please go easy on the criticism; remember, you can criticize the things I do without criticizing me.

VII. Please give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail, so that I can learn from my mistakes. Then someday I'll be prepared to make the kinds of decisions life requires of me.

VIII. Please don't do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts didn't quite measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, but please don't try to compare me with my brother or my sister.

IX. Please don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents, just as parents need vacations from kids. Besides, it is a great way to show us kids that your marriage is very special.

X. Please take me to Sunday School and church regularly, setting a good example for me to follow. I enjoy learning more about God.