Each one an original.
Each with the potential to fly or crash.
Each a piece of unpainted furniture, that can become a priceless piece of art or a broken piece of humanity.
Kids arrive naked! Like a piece of unpainted furniture. Some are blonde oak; some a golden walnut; others a deep, rich mahagony.
Whatever the color, there's much to be done before they become a lovely piece of art. Just like painted furniture, they have to be prepared, primed, and painted.
Preparation is key. If you slap a coat of paint on a piece of raw wood which hasn't been sanded or primed, it may look good for a while, but the rough edges will catch on anyone walking by, and the painted surface will chip away before long.
Are you preparing your children to become a highly prized piece of art?
In many ways, the results are up to you. What an awesome and frightening responsibility. You are the one who sands, primes, and paints this amazing creation. Be gentle! Don’t damage the original by sanding with unkind words or harsh treatment. Use very fine sandpaper as you work on those rough edges of stubbornness and defiance. Be firm and consistent as you break that strong will. Be loving and positive whenever you can.
Dad, your boy wants to be just like you. Are you still rough around the edges? Has your lifestyle chipped away at your paint job? What kind of kid will he be if he turns out to be like you?
Your daughter is watching how you act and react, Mom. Do you want her to be like you? Are you beautiful on the outside but ugly underneath? Make sure your paint job goes all the way through!
It will take a long time for your child to become a beautiful piece of art. Be patient with your kids ~ and yourself. And enjoy the process.
~Thanks to the author of this contribution, my dear friend, Gladys Deloe