Tough Call

It's fall and kids are going back to school. The little ones are showing their concern by asking questions about friends, the room, their backpacks and other details of their little world. I need to reassure them and encourage them... life will be good, just go after it!

But the older ones are showing their angst in other ways... but it's the same emotion coming out as the younger ones. The stakes are higher though. Will I get a job? Will I have a friend? Will there be time for some fun? Will I do well in that tough class? Can I stay up all night and drive fifty miles home? You know the drill.

Well, what does a father do when one of the dearly beloved "older kids" make a poor decision with ramifications? My first inclination is to make the boo-boo go away. Bad move. Instead I have to let the reality of the situation settle in so major life lessons can be learned well. Here are some life lessons we have gone through this summer that should translate into a better life for my kids:

Do overs are on your own dime. If you are given something of value and you screw it up, you have to fix it up yourself. That includes expensive electronics, cars, classes, friendships.

Sorry, but your friends do determine your image. People will like, or dislike, you based on the friends you choose to keep.

Laundry doesn't get done by itself. (Need I say more?)

Yes, the car really does need oil. No, I really don't want to pay for it (unless I can surprise you with a blessing!)

Lose my tool? Yes I will complain and ask for it to be replaced.

No, there really isn't anything good that happens after midnight. Not anything that will help you in your future.

The little kids are real people too. Treat them like people now, and they will treat you like people when they get older.

Kids are tough. Grandkids are awesome!

Finally, we really do like to have you as a dinner participant. You may be exercising your tastes, but it's a free meal and your conversation is always welcome. I may not agree with you, but you are always welcome.

That's all. We've had some tough calls this summer, but the core remains the same: love and encourage through the reality that is.