This photo was on Lola's blog one day. The writing on one window caught my attention. Do you see the window with the words "Kids Need Role Models"? Having been raised in an unsafe environment, eventually marrying and raising daughters and a son, and now watching my grandchildren and children of their generation, it is clear that children cannot be raised by nannies or latch keys.
A good role model is not synonymous with a saint or a perfect human being. There is no such thing. We are all learning and hopefully we all want to leave a safe and happy place for the children in all the next generations. The beings that are a spark waiting to be born one day deserve at least what it was like when I came into this world. My personal situation was far from ideal, but the world around me was interesting and educational and encouraged my imagination and creativeness.
The area I lived as a child was acres and acres of orange groves. And farms. Lots of animals. I watched how the animals related to each other. Sometimes I think the animals are gentler and kinder to each other than humans.
31 comments:
So true.
When we had children we made a choice to live on one wage so that my wife could be a full time mom. Sure, things are tight at times, but we believe our kids are all the better for it.
I grew up around a lot of animals - my mom rescued dogs. I like animals more than I like a lot of people. You know where you are with an animal - if it doesn't like you it will make it very clear! They don't lie.
Kids do need role models that is for sure. as for animals I love them, everything but snakes and lizards. lol.
You do wll to exclude saints and perfect human beings... in fact, you do well. Full stop.
amen. i work in too many houses where kids are just fumbling along trying to find their way without someone to guide them...at least on a positive path...
When I was but a pup, a percussionist from the Dallas Symphony took pity on me, and gave me lessons for free. He was an awesome role model. I went on the become a music major in college! I've always tried to pay him back - by paying it forward....What an awesome concept of mentoring!
I know. People can be heartless alright.
As far as I know, animals don't kill each other just to watch them suffer, like people do. Thanks for this thoughtful post, TB.
You are absolutely right. That is such a simple statement, but its truth is very, very real.
I know that many of us, many years later, can remember that person who was a role model in our life. You are right, they are not always perfect, but they are an invaluable part of our life.
That wouldn't have been our cat there in that photo. She was a stray, living in the streets when we took her in. Since she had no good role model, she pretty much fought with every cat around, in the middle of the night too.
But I agree. Children do need good role models. My parents taught me frugality, which I have a feeling is going to become more and more handy has our economy slogs along.
True on both scores about role models and animals. But I feel sorry for parents today. They are up against so much. I think one of the best things a parent can do is to keep TV out of the house. Unfortunately, kids find role models of the worst kind on that box. I know you can't isolate yourself or your children, but if you can instill non-material values, creativity, compassion, and a love for learning in them young, you probably have a fighting chance later.
You always speak such wise words.
Sadly, your last statement is all too true, but you are correct that kids need guidance, and parents owe that to their children.
It's interesting watching animals parents relating to their offspring. They have no problem making sharp and necessary corrections when they have to. I agree - children do need role models. And you're also right that it's not about being perfect, but it's about being real.
There's such truth to this.. sadly.
Well maybe.. male African lions are known to kill and eat the cubs of a rival male to bring the females into heat and sire their own progeny. Some things animals are not that good at.
Children do need role models, well good role models anyway. Unfortunately nowadays kids look to pop stars, and celebs and often believe that's the way they should live their lives.
I love that bus. WOW! I love that you realize kids need role models. Most of all, I love that you are a role model every day. You are a blessing.
I love this post and I agree with everything you have said. So many children are raising themselves, we are blessed that most turn out so well others not so much...which breaks my heart.....:-)Hugs
i have to agree, our children need someone to look up to, to guide them, teach and nurture them...
It is a simple but profound statement. Saw a great piece on the Big Brother/Big Sister program last night which certainly fits the need here!
Amen, Techno!
Yes, role models are often in short supply.
You wrote a good post.
Love that bus and the slogans.
Maggie X
Nuts in May
you are very right about role models and they need more than one. To start with it helps if their parents are role models but as you know that's not always necessary. Kids will look for direction and it turns out bad when they follow the wrong direction.
About the animals - I tend to disagree with you maybe farm animals but many animals in the wild survive by killing each other.
I agree with you but most of the world doesn't seem to. Money makes the world go round and all that. People focus on their money and hope for the best with the kids.
I love that second photo (smile). It disheartens me how so many excuses are made why a parent can't raise a child with love and security. Even without a good role model growing up, a lot is common sense - you didn't have near a good a start in life than most, yet you CHOSE to put your kids first, and just look at how they've thrived! I am sick of the selfish, me-first attitude of damaged people throwing their children below their needs. sigh. Yes, kids needs role models, but mostly they need a nurturing family environment.
Oh, that last kitty photo is just...there are no words. It's possibly my favorite photo ever.
You are so right, TechnoBabe. I was a single mom for years and when I got frustrated with my darling girls I would think, "They did not ask to be born". We owe them the best we've got even if it isn't perfect.
Technobabe, the story of your life and how you have overcome could be an amazing and inspiring self-help book (or any kind of book). But I'm glad to have your blog. It always inspires me. I love your observations. Yes, a good role model doesn't have to be perfect. Thank goodness!
"Sometimes I think the animals are gentler and kinder to each other than humans."
Yes, except when they eat their young...hahahaha
Animals are unselfish and love unconditionally. At least that is how my dogs are. I wish that we were more like our animals.
This was quite thought-provoking, Techno. Good post.
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