It has recently come to the attention of Ms. “V” that some children believe that their parents owe them something. They think that they should be given Prime-rib instead of 50% ground round; French onion soup in lieu of Ramen noodles or the Hampton rather than the Dew Drop Inn Motel (it’s clean and it isn’t a one night stand establishment).
Some young people consider that their elders should cater to their every need, and no gratification ever crosses the minds of those children. Grandparents send money in a birthday card ($10.00 is all they had at the time) and the child says, “Is that all they sent?” Parents take their savings to get the child a new pair of shoes that they asked for. Someone gives them a compliment and the child thinks that they are ‘God’s gift to humanity’. Not even a “Thank you” said.
Do not think that this writer is speaking of ungrateful young children under school-age. No. While a child is in school (usually until they graduate from high school) their parents are responsible for the basic necessities: food, clothing ( and it doesn’t have to be a high-end labeled clothing) shelter, a basic education and what the Bible instructs parents to supply which is love and an understanding of who God is in their lives.
• Deuteronomy 7:9 (King James Version) Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
• Isaiah 54:13 (King James Version) And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.
Children have a responsibility to their parents, elders, community and also to themselves.
• Proverbs 22:6 (King James Version) Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
It’s up to those mature adults to continue to let young people know when they are doing something wrong. Tell them and show them in the way that they should go. If their pants are hanging off their butt – let them know that it’s not acceptable. Cussing in your presence – ask that they please stop polluting your ears. Being disrespectful – let them know that they too will be elderly someday if they live long enough.
It does take a village to raise a child and we’re all part of that village.
If you like Ms. “V”s Blog, come read her weekly column on: The Examiner.com
