Beech Tree News Network

While visiting the city park this weekend, I was rather disturbed by the language I was hearing from some of the children.  The park should be a fun, family environment for all ages.  I understand we all have free will to speak however we choose. But, there is this thing called respect that seems to be lacking in today's society.

My husband and I sat there watching our 3 year old son play, along with other children his age and some a bit older.  The foul language was coming from children who looked to be in their early teens.  Maybe it's a sign that I'm getting older, or maybe it's because I am now a parent. Whatever the reason that causes me to rant about this, I feel it comes down to respect.  We should always be aware of being respectful to those around us, and having respect for ourselves as well.

I'm a firm believer that all things begin at home.  Respect begins at home.  It can be demonstrated and learned in many ways.  I'm also a firm believer that whatever we expect from our children is what we should model for them.  If we help one another at home, we will more likely help others outside the home.  If we don't speak harshly and use foul language in our home, then chances are that our children won't speak that way.  We have the ultimate model to learn from . . . God.  Being a good model for our children is crucial.  It's our one chance to help mold them.  Even if they "test the waters" so to speak, they will always have that mold to go back to.

We all have flaws.  We all have more to learn each new day.  I am no super parent by any means.  But I am a parent who wants to teach my children right from wrong, and how to be polite, and how to have respect for themselves and others.  Everyday is a new day that presents new opportunities to teach, to learn, and to help.  I encourage you to look for these opportunities and don't let them pass.