Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Raising a Man

Case and I went to a make-up music class this morning. He's involved in Kindermusik and we missed a class while on vacation. So, it was a whole new group of kids. The class is for newborns-18months so I was surprised when we arrived to see a 3 or 4 year old there. This boys mom also had twins that were probably 9 months. She had her hands full to say the least. This older boy is the topic of my blog....even though he was 3 or 4 he talked like a baby. He threw himself on the ground when we put the instruments away and cried and cried. His baby brothers just sat and stared at him. I wondered to myself, (because I am a perfect mom), how does one raise such an immature 3 year old? The mom finally ended up leaving class early because the boy threw tantrum after tantrum. She never once scolded him - maybe she didn't want to do it in front of all the other moms - she never once told him to stop. How does a child turn out like that?

My thoughts on the drive home turned to my sweet little boy. I often worry about raising a Godly man in these times. Being a teacher, I know that kids are not like they used to be. Case is the sweetest little boy. He loves to give big, wet, slobbery kisses. He loves to be held. He puts his forehead on my forehead to give me a love. Sometimes I worry that he'll lose his sweet disposition and be a tantrum-throwing red head. But, then I'm reminded of the examples around him that he's exposed to everyday. His dad is just as sweet as my little boy. And loves to give "loves" just like his little boy does. His aunt Shiloh is gentle. His uncle Collin is patient. His cousins are learning how to share with him. His aunt Katie is a snuggler.

My point is, children learn by example. My little boy is surrounded by so many positive things and people, it can't help but rub off on him. Not to say he'll never throw a tantrum or be naughty, but I'm convinced that the examples and influences he sees now will shape him into the man he will be. And if he's like his daddy, he'll be a great man; hopefully greater.

4 comments:

  1. Awww, how sweet. Yes, I think you guys will do just fine raising a wonderful child. He's a sweety, for sure. Continue to pray for him always.

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  2. Shan, you're such a great writer.

    Great thoughts on raising a child. "It takes a village", they say!

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  3. I know what you mean. Then these little ones grow up to be in our classrooms as middle schoolers. Although, I have to admit, sometimes Caeden has days like these too.

    Thanks for writing on Hannah's blog; I know she likes the comments. :)

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  4. He's the sweetest little boy, and you guys are doing a great job. No way will he turn into THAT kid! :)

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