I have never had 7-8 weeks to prepare for a talk before and hopefully, it won't happen that way again! It is nice to have it behind us. I know I didn't give a better talk with an extra 6 weeks to prepare. I spoke with last week's speaker and she has 6 weeks and still did it the night before!
Well, Brad, parenting is an adventure and you aren't always sure you have taken the right road, but with prayerful decisions it will usually come out with a good product, a functioning member of society and someone with a strong testimony of the gospel. We can't protect our children from the world through childhood, then expect them to deal with life as adults or teenagers. There are steps that must be taken by children as they experience the negative things of life with the tiny issues so that when big ones arise, they have the tools to respond appropriately. You have discovered that bullying starts very young. It is a huge issue in schools. An explanation that the behavior isn't proper in your home and a time out (brief) to reinforce the concept will have him well on his way with what is expected of him in spite of what he sees elsewhere. Once won't do it, but hang in there, he will get it. It is all these little issues that build character and shape the individual. The fine line is to know when too much exposure isn't good. It is good for our children to be good role models for others as long as they are staying afloat. There are lots of parents out there with poor parenting skills. these are the ones you don't want watching your children but have the friend in your home (if necessary) where you have control and can set the rules of what happens in your home. Be consistent!
I know I made tons of mistakes with each of my children and I am not much of an expert, but I believe the Lord makes up for your shortcomings if you are trying to do what is right. There are no perfect parents out there, so relax!
You two are doing great, keep up the good work, it is a long, rocky road with lots of highs and lows, but worth it! I have awesome grandchildren!
Mom
