As the mom of 2 boys, I frequently think about the evils that vie for their attention. My oldest is 11 and my youngest is almost 9. Two summers ago they were literally a few feet from me when they happened upon a pornographic website. I fluctuate between anger and fear in considering the ease with which such filth is available to the innocent eyes of my beautiful sons.
My husband and I believe the very best thing we can do for our boys is to talk with them frequently about how we protect ourselves from evil; about how we discern between good and evil; about how to make wise choices on a daily basis. The boys often question us about why we do not allow them to watch certain TV programs and movies, and why we care so much about the types of video games they play and websites they frequent. Most of what they are interested in right now is not too questionable, but their interests are only a few short steps away from more serious issues. If we open our home to questionable media at 11 and 9 years, then what will we be facing in at 18 and 16 years of age?
The following song by Casting Crowns is featured in the recent film titled Fireproof. It is a powerful reminder of the short steps that lie between innocence and deep hurt in families. We are trying to teach our boys that everything we do has an impact on others. We are trying to prepare them to consider how the choices they will make as teenagers might affect their futures. We are trying to show the boys how our choices today impact their futures. If they do not experience a Godly marriage through Steve and I, then they will have a difficult time being Godly adults. Who each of us is today has a whole lot to do with our early experiences in our homes of origin - not that God can not do some serious damage control if we allow Him to work in us - Praise His Name (because none of us are perfect, right?)!
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Thanks, Heidi. You inspire me! I've added the blog to "my favorites". I also got into blog world just from other blogs you keep up with. It was fun to read some of what other moms do, feel, buy, etc. I want you to speak next year at the moms group that I help coordinate. More on that later :-)
ReplyDeleteI have to exercise self-control in the blog world, too! Would love to hear more about your mom's group sometime! Love ya
ReplyDeleteThanks for tagging me. I enjoy your thougts, which often cause me to reflect.
ReplyDeleteHeidi, please keep me in the loop as well! I am a bit internet challenged and have never looked at a blog!(don't laugh) Love the encouraging words, real thoughts, and connection that this provides Christian women and mothers!
ReplyDeleteThanks :)
Misty
Heidi,
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work, girl. I always knew you were special but this is over the top (at least it is for this Mom!)
Mom