For the past couple of weeks I have been reading "My So-Called Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife" by Sara Horn. It has made me laugh, cry, identify and wonder what kind of wife I am. Like all women, I have always been intimated by this "perfect" woman! I mean who can do all those things, at the same time and be happy and joyful and a blessing to her husband and family! I mean - cone on now. We are living in the 21st century.
My opinion slowy changed as I read this book. It caused me to take a hard look at myself and see where I fit into that mode. Is there even a space for me? Could I even have a bit of what this woman is?
Sara has recently offered weekly challenges to us - to help us become the women that God desires us to be. Right now we are on the 2nd weekly challange.
Our first challenge was - Show him love. She shared Romans 12:9 - 19 from the Message bible:
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
As much as I love Lars sometimes my selfish nature takes over. I want it to be all about me! And in thinking that way, I forget the gift that God gave me in my husband. So our challenge was to show him love. Put him first, practice playing second fiddle and show him love. Keep track and be ready to share.
At the end of the week I learned a lot about putting Lars first. This is my response posted on Sara's blog after that week.
It started out good but I had to bite my tongue and show love when he started snoring! Normally he does not but with the weather change he has started. Asked him to put another pillow under him but he said that hurt his neck. Before I would say well you need to do something because I need my sleep. This time I kissed him, said it was okay and rolled over praying I would fall asleep. We have had a busy week as well. The rule of thumb is if you cook dinner you don’t have to do dishes. Tuesday we were watching our favorite “Biggest Loser” and he was missing out. So I went in and helped in so we could watch together. He told me he appreciated that.
It is still a process. I love him but sometimes I get so busy and distracted, I don’t take the time to show him love. Need to find new ways to show him that I love and appreciate him.
Yeaterday we received our 2nd challenge - Do the small things.
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’ – Matthew 25:23
Our challenge is to pay attention to the small things. Like the clutter on our dresser, or our disorganized towels or picking up before bed. This morning I put into practice that very thing. Normally my morning befor work is eating breakfast, showering and catching up on email and Facebook. I tend to leave things a little messy knowing I will get to them that night. But this morning I took about 10 minutes and cleaned off the dining room table. It did not take too long and it really made a differece! I actually felt like I accomplished something. I am so looking forward to what the end of the week will bring with these challenge.
I encourage all to check out Sara at her website. Who knows? Maybe God has something for you to learn as well.
http://www.myproverbs31life.com/
Have a great day!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Taking the Proverbs 31 Challenge
For the past couple of weeks I have been reading "My So-Called Life as a Proverbs 31 Wife" by Sara Horn. It has made me laugh, cry, identify and wonder what kind of wife I am. Like all women, I have always been intimated by this "perfect" woman! I mean who can do all those things, at the same time and be happy and joyful and a blessing to her husband and family! I mean - come on now. We are living in the 21st century.
My opinion slowy changed as I read this book. It caused me to take a hard look at myself and see where I fit into that mode. Is there even a space for me? Could I even have a bit of what this woman is?
Sara has recently offered weekly challenges to us - to help us become the women that God desires us to be. Right now we are on the 2nd weekly challange.
Our first challenge was - Show him love. She shared Romans 12:9 - 19 from the Message bible:
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
As much as I love Lars sometimes my selfish nature takes over. I want it to be all about me! And in thinking that way, I forget the gift that God gave me in my husband. So our challenge was to show him love. Put him first, practice playing second fiddle and show him love. Keep track and be ready to share.
At the end of the week I learned a lot about putting Lars first. This is my response posted on Sara's blog after that week.
It started out good but I had to bite my tongue and show love when he started snoring! Normally he does not but with the weather change he has started. Asked him to put another pillow under him but he said that hurt his neck. Before I would say well you need to do something because I need my sleep. This time I kissed him, said it was okay and rolled over praying I would fall asleep. We have had a busy week as well. The rule of thumb is if you cook dinner you don’t have to do dishes. Tuesday we were watching our favorite “Biggest Loser” and he was missing out. So I went in and helped in so we could watch together. He told me he appreciated that.
It is still a process. I love him but sometimes I get so busy and distracted, I don’t take the time to show him love. Need to find new ways to show him that I love and appreciate him.
Yeaterday we received our 2nd challenge - Do the small things.
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’ – Matthew 25:23
Our challenge is to pay attention to the small things. Like the clutter on our dresser, or our disorganized towels or picking up before bed. This morning I put into practice that very thing. Normally my morning befor work is eating breakfast, showering and catching up on email and Facebook. I tend to leave things a little messy knowing I will get to them that night. But this morning I took about 10 minutes and cleaned off the dining room table. It did not take too long and it really made a differece! I actually felt like I accomplished something. I am so looking forward to what the end of the week will bring with these challenge.
I encourage all to check out Sara at her website. Who knows? Maybe God has something for you to learn as well.
http://networkedblogs.com/odxNi
Have a great day!
http://networkedblogs.com/odxNi
My opinion slowy changed as I read this book. It caused me to take a hard look at myself and see where I fit into that mode. Is there even a space for me? Could I even have a bit of what this woman is?
Sara has recently offered weekly challenges to us - to help us become the women that God desires us to be. Right now we are on the 2nd weekly challange.
Our first challenge was - Show him love. She shared Romans 12:9 - 19 from the Message bible:
Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
As much as I love Lars sometimes my selfish nature takes over. I want it to be all about me! And in thinking that way, I forget the gift that God gave me in my husband. So our challenge was to show him love. Put him first, practice playing second fiddle and show him love. Keep track and be ready to share.
At the end of the week I learned a lot about putting Lars first. This is my response posted on Sara's blog after that week.
It started out good but I had to bite my tongue and show love when he started snoring! Normally he does not but with the weather change he has started. Asked him to put another pillow under him but he said that hurt his neck. Before I would say well you need to do something because I need my sleep. This time I kissed him, said it was okay and rolled over praying I would fall asleep. We have had a busy week as well. The rule of thumb is if you cook dinner you don’t have to do dishes. Tuesday we were watching our favorite “Biggest Loser” and he was missing out. So I went in and helped in so we could watch together. He told me he appreciated that.
It is still a process. I love him but sometimes I get so busy and distracted, I don’t take the time to show him love. Need to find new ways to show him that I love and appreciate him.
Yeaterday we received our 2nd challenge - Do the small things.
“The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’ – Matthew 25:23
Our challenge is to pay attention to the small things. Like the clutter on our dresser, or our disorganized towels or picking up before bed. This morning I put into practice that very thing. Normally my morning befor work is eating breakfast, showering and catching up on email and Facebook. I tend to leave things a little messy knowing I will get to them that night. But this morning I took about 10 minutes and cleaned off the dining room table. It did not take too long and it really made a differece! I actually felt like I accomplished something. I am so looking forward to what the end of the week will bring with these challenge.
I encourage all to check out Sara at her website. Who knows? Maybe God has something for you to learn as well.
http://networkedblogs.com/odxNi
Have a great day!
http://networkedblogs.com/odxNi
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
My Wyeth
My Wyeth
17 years ago you joined our lives! But your story started way before that. It was as if you were the baby we were to have. From my miscarriage before, to 3 years trying to get pregnant and then my first month on bed rest, to August 9, 1994!
I still remember the weekend before your birth. Driving up from VA and going to camp in Maryland, NY. Meeting my new doctor on August 9. Running errands for Grandpa and then heading back to camp. Miss Bette always cooked wonderful things for camp and I was a fam of a chicken dish she did. That Monday she had made it and I was so happy. I went to thank her and then said, "I can have this baby now." Little did I know that in a few short hours, my water would break!
I sat in the R.V. and timed my contractions. Your dad had a call into my doctor and Tierney kept bring youth to see me in labor. Finally we headed out to Oneonta, to get ready to bring you into this world.
I was the only one in labor and had all the attention of the nurses. We had a t.v. in our room and as the hours passed we watched and talked. Grandma and Grandpa came by to visit and Grandpa was a little concerned when this strange guy came in dressed like a janitor and eating an ice cream cone . It was my doctor, so he felt better.
As my labor continued I thought "Hey, this is my last baby. The pains are right on top of each other. Could I have something to ease the pain, a little?" But it turns out I was too far along and got nothing. I chanted "The joy of the Lord is my strength" during every contraction. Finally the time came and you were here! The joy of holding you in my arms and nursing you the first time, was just as precious as the first time I held Tierney and Bethany.
Fast forward to 2011. You have grown into an amazing young woman. While you do not have it all right, your desire is to be the best you can. I love your commitment to our Lord and your willingness to serve at church. Several older ladies love how freely you hug and love on them.
I love the times we would sit and watch old movies and eat junk food. And your loving Lars and accepting him into our family. Our memories together I will cherish the rest of my life.
As you get ready to graduate next year and move on to the next chapter of your life, my prayer is that I taught, encouraged and prepared you for life as an adult. And while some young adults drift in the their relationship with Jesus, my continuing prayer is that you will stay close to Him and stay involved in church. That your close friends and free time would be ones that would honor Him.
I love you! Thanks for blessing me with your life. And I thank God for entrusting me with you.
17 years ago you joined our lives! But your story started way before that. It was as if you were the baby we were to have. From my miscarriage before, to 3 years trying to get pregnant and then my first month on bed rest, to August 9, 1994!
I still remember the weekend before your birth. Driving up from VA and going to camp in Maryland, NY. Meeting my new doctor on August 9. Running errands for Grandpa and then heading back to camp. Miss Bette always cooked wonderful things for camp and I was a fam of a chicken dish she did. That Monday she had made it and I was so happy. I went to thank her and then said, "I can have this baby now." Little did I know that in a few short hours, my water would break!
I sat in the R.V. and timed my contractions. Your dad had a call into my doctor and Tierney kept bring youth to see me in labor. Finally we headed out to Oneonta, to get ready to bring you into this world.
I was the only one in labor and had all the attention of the nurses. We had a t.v. in our room and as the hours passed we watched and talked. Grandma and Grandpa came by to visit and Grandpa was a little concerned when this strange guy came in dressed like a janitor and eating an ice cream cone . It was my doctor, so he felt better.
As my labor continued I thought "Hey, this is my last baby. The pains are right on top of each other. Could I have something to ease the pain, a little?" But it turns out I was too far along and got nothing. I chanted "The joy of the Lord is my strength" during every contraction. Finally the time came and you were here! The joy of holding you in my arms and nursing you the first time, was just as precious as the first time I held Tierney and Bethany.
Fast forward to 2011. You have grown into an amazing young woman. While you do not have it all right, your desire is to be the best you can. I love your commitment to our Lord and your willingness to serve at church. Several older ladies love how freely you hug and love on them.
I love the times we would sit and watch old movies and eat junk food. And your loving Lars and accepting him into our family. Our memories together I will cherish the rest of my life.
As you get ready to graduate next year and move on to the next chapter of your life, my prayer is that I taught, encouraged and prepared you for life as an adult. And while some young adults drift in the their relationship with Jesus, my continuing prayer is that you will stay close to Him and stay involved in church. That your close friends and free time would be ones that would honor Him.
I love you! Thanks for blessing me with your life. And I thank God for entrusting me with you.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
It Is Just One of Those Days!
Have you ever had the day where everything and anything was a struggle? A huge effort to even think about what needs to be done? All that you can think of is crawling back into bed, bury yourself under the covers and wake up when it is another day? Another week? Another month or even another year?
Since returning from New York on Tuesday, I have been having one of those days for the past 2 days! Now I know there are many factors for this feeling. Not having bounced back from the flight. The awful night spent at Newark Airport. The intense heat and humidity back east.
But the question that keeps going through my mind is ‘When will this be over?' I have a great deal on my plate for the next 2 months, starting with tonight. True to my nature, I over book and over plan. There was a time in my life when I thrived on all the challenges and things to do. I am finding though that as I get older, that kind of life style does not appeal to me anymore.
Now don't get me wrong. I love working with youth and most days, I love my job. I enjoy my home life with Lars and Wyeth, even though it could be a little more organized and cleaner for me! I guess I feel that life has to be more simpler. Maybe all the things on my plate overwhelm me and I just want to forget about them, even for a minute. Is it possible that once my life slows down and becomes more simple, more organized and less stressful, I won't be having these days?
I am reminded of what Jesus says:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Matthew 11: 28 - 30
Lord, I need that rest so much. I need to be able to do what you have called me to do and have your energy and your peace as I met the demands of my day. Thank you for reminding me of your rest that you freely give.
So as I finish my day at a Christmas in July scrapbook party working on a Christmas present for my Bethany, I am going to use that time to refresh and re-charge. And make it a point as I start my day tomorrow to start it with God. Doing things that refresh me such as devotional time, reading, scrap booking, or even a nice work out will help keep those days to a minium. And knowing that God is with me always is reason to keep on going.
Since returning from New York on Tuesday, I have been having one of those days for the past 2 days! Now I know there are many factors for this feeling. Not having bounced back from the flight. The awful night spent at Newark Airport. The intense heat and humidity back east.
But the question that keeps going through my mind is ‘When will this be over?' I have a great deal on my plate for the next 2 months, starting with tonight. True to my nature, I over book and over plan. There was a time in my life when I thrived on all the challenges and things to do. I am finding though that as I get older, that kind of life style does not appeal to me anymore.
Now don't get me wrong. I love working with youth and most days, I love my job. I enjoy my home life with Lars and Wyeth, even though it could be a little more organized and cleaner for me! I guess I feel that life has to be more simpler. Maybe all the things on my plate overwhelm me and I just want to forget about them, even for a minute. Is it possible that once my life slows down and becomes more simple, more organized and less stressful, I won't be having these days?
I am reminded of what Jesus says:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Matthew 11: 28 - 30
Lord, I need that rest so much. I need to be able to do what you have called me to do and have your energy and your peace as I met the demands of my day. Thank you for reminding me of your rest that you freely give.
So as I finish my day at a Christmas in July scrapbook party working on a Christmas present for my Bethany, I am going to use that time to refresh and re-charge. And make it a point as I start my day tomorrow to start it with God. Doing things that refresh me such as devotional time, reading, scrap booking, or even a nice work out will help keep those days to a minium. And knowing that God is with me always is reason to keep on going.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
The Joys of Reading
I picked up the July/August copy of "Bliss Victoria", one of my favorite magazines. As I started reading I noticed The Reader to Reader column. The question posed to them was "Is there a certain book that played a significant role in your life?"
As I read the responses, I started thinking of all the books that I have read over the years. First and foremost, reading is my favorite of all hobbies. I devour books. Whether it was trips to the library every week as a child, to spending hours at Barnes and Noble or Borders looking for old favorites and new authors to read now as an adult.
Of course books like Charlotte's Web, The Boxcar Children and the Betsy series were favorites as a young girl. In 3rd grade I read Gone With The Wind for the first time, armed with a dictionary! Then it was the Little House series. Reading about the adventures of Laura and her family made me want a simpler time. Even today as an adult, I re-read those books. I also was a fan of Nancy Drew Mysteries. How cool Nancy was with her blue convertible, fashionable wardrobe and her ability to solve mysteries!
My most favorite book is Little Women. I have read that book so many times. The troubles and joys the March sisters had always stirred my heart. And when I read it again after becoming a Christian, I understood more and more of the values and life principles Louisa May Alcott wove into the story.
I also have fond memories of The All of a Kind Family series. Stories about a big Jewish family in NYC during the 1900's. And who could forgot the Double Date, Double Wedding series. Or a Date for Diane and Tojours Diane. I could spend hours recalling my favorite childhood and teen year books. In fact I have slowly been buying them for my own library. I shared all my favorites with my daughters as I read to them and even my oldest now has her own Betsy series.
As I got older I discovered new authors like Brock and Bodie Thoene, Anya Seyton ( love her books Katherine and Green Darkness) Stephen King, Nora Roberts and so many others. I have read my North and South Trilogy so many times the books are falling apart. Then Steve Berry, James Patterson, Ken Foeltt. I could spend days sharing about my favorite writes and books that touched me in some way.
I am saddened how reading has become a thing of the past for so many people today. I have been to so many places, so many different eras and have so many friends in the books I have read. My friend La Homa got me a night shirt for Christmas that says "So many books, so little time" with a stack of books underneath. That is so true!
Then I think about all the wisdom and joy I get from reading my Bible. And the Christian writers for both fiction and non fiction. Rick Warren's - A Purpose Driven Life! The Left Behind series by Tim La Haye and Jerry Jenkins. Even with this group of books I could go on forever.
I am thankful my girls share my love of reading. That love was passed down to me by my mother. And I hope my children will pass that love to my grandchildren. I feel sorry for those of you who claim to hate reading. You have no idea of how reading can enrich your lives. I encourage you to pick up a book. Try something that interests you. There are so many genres and so many topics.
Happy Reading!
As I read the responses, I started thinking of all the books that I have read over the years. First and foremost, reading is my favorite of all hobbies. I devour books. Whether it was trips to the library every week as a child, to spending hours at Barnes and Noble or Borders looking for old favorites and new authors to read now as an adult.
Of course books like Charlotte's Web, The Boxcar Children and the Betsy series were favorites as a young girl. In 3rd grade I read Gone With The Wind for the first time, armed with a dictionary! Then it was the Little House series. Reading about the adventures of Laura and her family made me want a simpler time. Even today as an adult, I re-read those books. I also was a fan of Nancy Drew Mysteries. How cool Nancy was with her blue convertible, fashionable wardrobe and her ability to solve mysteries!
My most favorite book is Little Women. I have read that book so many times. The troubles and joys the March sisters had always stirred my heart. And when I read it again after becoming a Christian, I understood more and more of the values and life principles Louisa May Alcott wove into the story.
I also have fond memories of The All of a Kind Family series. Stories about a big Jewish family in NYC during the 1900's. And who could forgot the Double Date, Double Wedding series. Or a Date for Diane and Tojours Diane. I could spend hours recalling my favorite childhood and teen year books. In fact I have slowly been buying them for my own library. I shared all my favorites with my daughters as I read to them and even my oldest now has her own Betsy series.
As I got older I discovered new authors like Brock and Bodie Thoene, Anya Seyton ( love her books Katherine and Green Darkness) Stephen King, Nora Roberts and so many others. I have read my North and South Trilogy so many times the books are falling apart. Then Steve Berry, James Patterson, Ken Foeltt. I could spend days sharing about my favorite writes and books that touched me in some way.
I am saddened how reading has become a thing of the past for so many people today. I have been to so many places, so many different eras and have so many friends in the books I have read. My friend La Homa got me a night shirt for Christmas that says "So many books, so little time" with a stack of books underneath. That is so true!
Then I think about all the wisdom and joy I get from reading my Bible. And the Christian writers for both fiction and non fiction. Rick Warren's - A Purpose Driven Life! The Left Behind series by Tim La Haye and Jerry Jenkins. Even with this group of books I could go on forever.
I am thankful my girls share my love of reading. That love was passed down to me by my mother. And I hope my children will pass that love to my grandchildren. I feel sorry for those of you who claim to hate reading. You have no idea of how reading can enrich your lives. I encourage you to pick up a book. Try something that interests you. There are so many genres and so many topics.
Happy Reading!
Friday, June 24, 2011
"Respect"
As I am getting ready to finish out a week of Vacation Bible School, I have come to the conclusion that respect is a lost character trait among the children and youth of this generation. I went to dictionary.com and found that respect is to hold in esteem or honor. The behavior I have been seeing shows that no one is being held in esteem or honor. From parents, to teachers, to our pastor, to each other - the art of being respectful has slowly faded away.
The Bible has plenty to say about respect and honor as well. Exodus 20:12 says "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Ephesians 6:1-3 says "Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right. 'Honor your father and your mother' - which is the first commandment with a promise - that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." And lastly Romans 13: 1 - 2 "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted and those who do so bring judgement on themselves."
I believe teachers fall into the latter verse. They have been given authority either by a church or a school to teach and lead children and youth. When these teachers are disrespected, ignored, talked back to - that shows to me an utter lack of respect. The norm used to be one or two bad apples in the bunch, but when you end up with 4 or 5 in a group of eight children, something is wrong!
There can be several reasons for this behavior. The children could be in an environment where respect is not taught or caught. Or they could be in a place where the parents will not let anyone correct or discipline their children. And of course there is always that child that no matter what will treat people whatever way they want.
Having worked with children and youth for almost 30 years I am finding it harder and harder to maintain order in my classes. I spend most of my time correcting disruptive behavior, chasing kids, breaking up fights, refusing to participate instead of listening and participating in what is going on.
My breaking point came last night. I was watching my co-teacher try to get the application of the lesson and nothing would move these kids to listen. And when called on to stop - the comments that were given, the attitude, the temper tantrums. It is easy to deal with one, but when you have 4 acting in that manner your hands become tied. My co - teacher just broke down. I had to step in and take charge and move from teacher to police warden, a role that I hate and one that I should not have to use. Then the excuses start. It was so and so's fault, I don't have to listen to you, my dad said I could do it. And in some cases all that is true. Parents. do you not realize the damage you are doing to your children by not teaching them how to respect adults and especially those in charge? If they don't learn now, how are they going to act when they start a job or join the military? Tell their boss or leader off? Run away and scream?
The thing that scares me the most is that this generation will be making decisions for me when I am old! Not a pleasant thought.
But a word of encouragement to those who teach your children manners, respect and how to behave, don't grow weary in doing good! Keep it up. The world may teach that character and values and respect are old fashioned and not needed in today's world. God says they are!
One of my favorite shows to watch is "19 Kids and Counting." I know, I know. Think of this though, when their oldest Josh was little they found a home school program that emphasized character and values. From the beginning to the end these values are taught. What a legacy to leave to your children. What a way to show the world that we believe this way is right.
Well I guess I am done with my soapbox. And if you see my daughter acting up, call her on it! She was raised to know better!
The Bible has plenty to say about respect and honor as well. Exodus 20:12 says "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." Ephesians 6:1-3 says "Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right. 'Honor your father and your mother' - which is the first commandment with a promise - that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." And lastly Romans 13: 1 - 2 "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted and those who do so bring judgement on themselves."
I believe teachers fall into the latter verse. They have been given authority either by a church or a school to teach and lead children and youth. When these teachers are disrespected, ignored, talked back to - that shows to me an utter lack of respect. The norm used to be one or two bad apples in the bunch, but when you end up with 4 or 5 in a group of eight children, something is wrong!
There can be several reasons for this behavior. The children could be in an environment where respect is not taught or caught. Or they could be in a place where the parents will not let anyone correct or discipline their children. And of course there is always that child that no matter what will treat people whatever way they want.
Having worked with children and youth for almost 30 years I am finding it harder and harder to maintain order in my classes. I spend most of my time correcting disruptive behavior, chasing kids, breaking up fights, refusing to participate instead of listening and participating in what is going on.
My breaking point came last night. I was watching my co-teacher try to get the application of the lesson and nothing would move these kids to listen. And when called on to stop - the comments that were given, the attitude, the temper tantrums. It is easy to deal with one, but when you have 4 acting in that manner your hands become tied. My co - teacher just broke down. I had to step in and take charge and move from teacher to police warden, a role that I hate and one that I should not have to use. Then the excuses start. It was so and so's fault, I don't have to listen to you, my dad said I could do it. And in some cases all that is true. Parents. do you not realize the damage you are doing to your children by not teaching them how to respect adults and especially those in charge? If they don't learn now, how are they going to act when they start a job or join the military? Tell their boss or leader off? Run away and scream?
The thing that scares me the most is that this generation will be making decisions for me when I am old! Not a pleasant thought.
But a word of encouragement to those who teach your children manners, respect and how to behave, don't grow weary in doing good! Keep it up. The world may teach that character and values and respect are old fashioned and not needed in today's world. God says they are!
One of my favorite shows to watch is "19 Kids and Counting." I know, I know. Think of this though, when their oldest Josh was little they found a home school program that emphasized character and values. From the beginning to the end these values are taught. What a legacy to leave to your children. What a way to show the world that we believe this way is right.
Well I guess I am done with my soapbox. And if you see my daughter acting up, call her on it! She was raised to know better!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Working With Youth
When I tell people that I work with teenagers I get so many responses. Are you crazy? They could not pay me enough to work with teenagers. Are you a glutton for punishment? The list goes on.
Over recent months I have had a lot of things disrupt and discourage me in my ministry to youth. Parents who expect me to be a miracle worker and want their youth changed immediately, parents who think my job is to baby sit their youth (i.e. take to and from church, feed them) or parents that think that being controlling is the way to be.
Thankfully, I have some awesome parents as well. One mom sent me a Facebook message thanking me for all that I do for her youth. I have another mom who is always ready to step in and help when I need it. I am so thankful for these parents. It is these parents who make me feel I am making a difference in their teenager's lives.
One thing I do not like is when any one complains about my youth or accuses them of things they do not do. Just as if they are my own children, I will fight for them, defend them and give them the best I can. They eat my food, trash my house, drive me crazy but God has entrusted them to me. My job is to lead them to a relationship with Jesus, teach them how to live out their faith in a world that is getting harder and harder to stay strong in. I take that responsibility seriously. Sometimes I am a parent to them because they need that from me.
So why work with youth? First and foremost that is the calling God has put on my life. Secondly, I love teenagers! Sure I get lots of drama, anger, mood swings but when a Bible study runs over because they are asking questions that makes up for it. When I have youth that have moved on to young adults and still call me for advice, that makes up for it. And when I watch the joy of a youth accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour, well you can imagine the depth of my feelings.
I have been working with youth for over 25 years and I always joke that my time will soon be over. But I have this feeling God is going to keep where I am for many years to come!
From my first ever group of teenagers I worked with (Peggy, Mimi, Esther, Judy, Ronda, Julie, La Verne and Bobby) to my current group of crazies (Ashley S, Ashley K, Tiana, Wyeth, Elena, Joshua, Tyus, Quentin, Anthony and Sean), I am so thankful for you. You are the reason I plot and plan and pray to reach you and your friends. You are what keeps me up at night, praying and worrying about the things you are going through. You are the reason a 48 year old woman stays up all night at lock ins, plays laser tag, goes to six Flags (and I don't like big rides anymore!). You are the reason I push you to be more than you are because God has an awesome plan for you. I want to make sure you are as ready as you can be to step out,
Thank you, God, for giving me the joy and honor for working with a group that most people don't even like to be around! This is why I work with youth! And this is why I will continue to, no matter what people say or what Satan does to discourage me.
"I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength" - Philippans 4:13
Over recent months I have had a lot of things disrupt and discourage me in my ministry to youth. Parents who expect me to be a miracle worker and want their youth changed immediately, parents who think my job is to baby sit their youth (i.e. take to and from church, feed them) or parents that think that being controlling is the way to be.
Thankfully, I have some awesome parents as well. One mom sent me a Facebook message thanking me for all that I do for her youth. I have another mom who is always ready to step in and help when I need it. I am so thankful for these parents. It is these parents who make me feel I am making a difference in their teenager's lives.
One thing I do not like is when any one complains about my youth or accuses them of things they do not do. Just as if they are my own children, I will fight for them, defend them and give them the best I can. They eat my food, trash my house, drive me crazy but God has entrusted them to me. My job is to lead them to a relationship with Jesus, teach them how to live out their faith in a world that is getting harder and harder to stay strong in. I take that responsibility seriously. Sometimes I am a parent to them because they need that from me.
So why work with youth? First and foremost that is the calling God has put on my life. Secondly, I love teenagers! Sure I get lots of drama, anger, mood swings but when a Bible study runs over because they are asking questions that makes up for it. When I have youth that have moved on to young adults and still call me for advice, that makes up for it. And when I watch the joy of a youth accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour, well you can imagine the depth of my feelings.
I have been working with youth for over 25 years and I always joke that my time will soon be over. But I have this feeling God is going to keep where I am for many years to come!
From my first ever group of teenagers I worked with (Peggy, Mimi, Esther, Judy, Ronda, Julie, La Verne and Bobby) to my current group of crazies (Ashley S, Ashley K, Tiana, Wyeth, Elena, Joshua, Tyus, Quentin, Anthony and Sean), I am so thankful for you. You are the reason I plot and plan and pray to reach you and your friends. You are what keeps me up at night, praying and worrying about the things you are going through. You are the reason a 48 year old woman stays up all night at lock ins, plays laser tag, goes to six Flags (and I don't like big rides anymore!). You are the reason I push you to be more than you are because God has an awesome plan for you. I want to make sure you are as ready as you can be to step out,
Thank you, God, for giving me the joy and honor for working with a group that most people don't even like to be around! This is why I work with youth! And this is why I will continue to, no matter what people say or what Satan does to discourage me.
"I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength" - Philippans 4:13
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