MOM Keep Calm
Parents, watch where you’re looking By Janet Lund
Story time!
Kids are watching. Always watching! That is how they learn to do life. From the moment their little eyes can focus, they focus on us. Infants mimic our facial expressions. As they grow, they continue to learn how to do things physically and emotionally by observing us. We are constantly teaching them, even when we don’t realize it. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to what we are watching. What we focus on we respond and react to. If we aren’t careful, we bring our reactions into our interactions with others. It also impacts our outlook on life in general. We must watch ourselves.
Several years ago, my family and I took what is known as the Idaho STAR class (Skills Training Advantage for Riders) for motorcycle riders. Our class was 2½ days of learning motorcycle skills. At the end of the weekend, our skills were put to the test, literally. If we passed, we became licensed riders. Even though it was here in town, I felt like we went away on vacation. It was a hoot! It’s funny – since I’ve learned to ride, whenever I am driving around town, I still have a hankering to put my hand out and give them the sign. This, of How do we do this? course, would make no sense coming from someone Be mindful of where you’re looking. When you in an automobile, but there it is. are going through difficult times, remember they Anyway, on to my point. Janet Lund aren’t the only realities in your life. This does not One of the most important lessons – and there mean you ignore the negative – quite the contrary. were many – we learned was this: Wherever you are It’s important to acknowledge the tough stuff and be mindful of your looking, you will go there. feelings – they do matter; but also choose to focus on the good stuff No matter how much you want to avoid running into the tree in your world. ahead of you, if you keep looking at it, you will crash into it. Can this be difficult? Good golly, yes! Especially when you have a Wherever your eyes are looking, your front tire will go there. So, lot on your plate. you can’t go out riding around staring at all the things you are afraid So how in the world do you get through the tough stuff ? you are going to run into. Your “evil eye” will not move obstacles out of your way. You must steer yourself clear by looking where you want to go instead. 10 helpful hints for you and your kids: 1. Daily devotions. Do devotions on your own and find a daily devotional for your kids. This is a great habit for your kids to start How is this helpful to me? developing. It’s easy as parents, and as people in general, to find yourself look2. Bible challenge. Have you and your kids read the whole Bible. ing at the things you are afraid of. Maybe even do it together! Of course, it’s important to become informed and aware of your 3. Listen to Christian music. It will lift your spirits and put surroundings. However, continuing to stare at what you are afraid of will impact your world. The longer you stare, the more fear will enter great earworms in your kids’ heads. 4. Pray as a family. Give thanks for all God has given. your world. We fear feeling afraid, and in so doing, we become even 5. Pray quietly alone. Invite Jesus into your heart and mind more afraid. daily. Ask that He fill you with wisdom and strength for what the day If you don’t want your children to become afraid of their world, brings. Invite Him to lead you every step of the way. you need to make sure that you are a parent who doesn’t live in fear.
14 July / August 2020 | Christian Living
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