post written by Dr. Varon Cantrell. Click here to learn more about our entire blog team.
When I have young children and teenagers in the clinic I do my very best to talk to them and to encourage them regarding their current “roles” in society. I stress with them that they only have two responsibilities. The first and most important responsibility is for them follow the commands/directives of the adults (parents, teachers, neighbors etc…) and their second responsibility is to do well in school. I tell them that if they are able to perfect these two responsibilities, then the chances of them being successful (defined as being a blessing to their community) will increase exponentially.
How does one do that? Do what your parents have done, but better!
Being a parent is a wonderful calling and it is a blessing. In my opinion, parenting is the most important job in the world. As parents, we are able to help shape the next generation of leaders and what we do for our children can/will last a lifetime. The way we carry ourselves, spend time with our children, encourage our children, love our children and discipline our children in love, goes well beyond the first 18 years of life. Our children are a reflection of us. Their behaviors, goals, dreams and aspirations are a result of what has been modeled for them growing up. While there is no such thing as a perfect home or perfect parent, there are many things that we can do that will give our children a strong foundation to build upon as they prepare to lead the next generation.
flickr photo by jaqjan
When we have our picture taken, what is it that we want that portrait to say? The same thing can be said regarding our children. As parents, it is imperative that we do our very best to be successful role models for our children. This in turn will help them to reflect or portray us. How do we Give A Care About Kids? By modeling success – hard work, accountability, responsibility, overcoming failures, never quitting, focusing on the family, stressing the importance of education, and thinking about how to be a blessing to others.
As a pediatrician, I stress these two responsibilities but I understand that this must start with the man/woman in the mirror… Me and You. We too have a responsibility and that is to paint these beautiful pictures that are the next generation in the form of our children. They are a reflection of us; a walking and talking image.
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