Lessons I hope we teach our kids, in light of the current economic situation:
1. Money is not security. When all your hopes, all your dreams, all your feelings of safety and security are tied up in the size of your bank account or your 401(k) or your mutual fund holdings…you’re on very shaky ground.
2. Good stewardship of whatever you have — whether it’s a lot or a little — is crucial. This applies to businesses, the government, and individuals. And it’s something we really need to teach our kids.
3. Community is important. I was shocked when I read about an elderly Ohio woman who shot herself and ended up in the hospital when she was faced with eviction from her house, which was in foreclosure. Where was her family? Her friends? Her church? Apparently, she didn’t feel like she had anyone to turn to, nowhere to go if she had to leave her home. Isolation is not a good thing.
4. Maintain perspective. I’ve been reading The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom over the last two weeks, and it’s incredible. This example of a family who was willing to give everything — their home, their time, their money, their comfort, their very lives — in order to do the right thing, to love and help others, is humbling and inspiring. I definitely recommend reading it if you never have! Their level of commitment and sacrifice makes current headlines pale in comparison.
These were just a few things that came out in conversation last night when C. (9) and I were talking about our nation’s current circumstances. I’d love to hear your thoughts as well. Do your kids ask about these things? What “life lessons” do you see emerging from recent happenings?
I got SO irritated about all of this watching just a little bit of the presidential debate last night.
I think I will write my own post for tomorrow.
I am not watching the news these day. I just can’t stand to hear any more of it.
Good conversations…my children aren’t very aware of what is going on…but I know in my own heart that the Lord is saying…let go of the temporal and look to Me and the eternal…be faithful with the small, day-t-day things that I set before you and I will take care of the rest…
Excellent post, Katrina.
ONLY MOM CAN READ
I love your blog. T
You have great posts.
Great perspective, Katrina.
My kids don’t get it, and they’re even “older”. I’m thankful they don’t live in fear.
Your suggestions are practical and logical; great advice for anyone to follow!
Great reminders.
Yep, examples like Corrie ten Boon really make us rethink our “troubles”, don’t they.
Great advice. So many times, we think because we are not “rich,” we will not be held as accountable for our stewardship. I love the comment on perspective, as well.
Very wise list, Katrina.
P.S. LOVE The Hiding Place–an amazing story and true perspective changer!