In the fullness of time, it will be interesting to discuss how discipline was handled when I was a young parent in light of the views my children decide to take with their children. I am confident they will be able to improve on their experience as I think I improved on the lessons given to me.
My starting premise is one of hope because of love and more insights. I believe most parents to the best they can in the context of what they know. The challenge is that you never know at the beginning what you know at the end.
As I watch young parents today I wonder how my legacy will play out in the next generation. While I am optimistic, I also know that parents are often tested to the edge of their limits. As I watched a kid in meltdown in a shopping center, I admired the response of almost everyone around the child. There were two obvious priorities – ensure that the child did not hurt anyone else and did not hurt himself. Other than that, it was a childish version of a controlled burn to put out a forest fire. The parents observed without being obvious, letting the child’s emotions run its course.
There were one or two short interventions. Selectively, the commands were direct and in the child’s best interests. Otherwise, the wailing, stomping, and ranting continued, burning itself in the wind until there was nothing left.
As I reflected on the patience and response, I realized that it was a model I have personally experienced. In the middle of a recent rant, it was as if Life was disciplining without intervening. The Whisper was direct and to the point; “Don’t raise your fist against High God. Don’t raise your voice against Rock of Ages.” (Psalm 75.5) I responded by demanding a response to my questions. I waited and waited some more, only to find myself listening to silence.
Disciplining a child can be emotionally draining. I am thankful for Divinity’s enduring patience and willingness to work with me.
