"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!