Dear Sons,
Yesterday on the drive home Christopher told me someone called him an idiot while in Sunday school. My heart began to beat fast and my first thought was to ask who this child was and go find the child and snatch them and have several choice words with child and parent. My logical, calm side did the acting that day, thank goodness. First I wanted to hear what you did and you reported the incident to your teacher who made the boy apologize. So, I asked you if you knew what the word idiot meant and you said no. I explained the word idiot refers to a person who is stupid or dumb. Next, I asked you Christopher are you dumb, to which you replied no. Since you are not stupid/dumb this word idiot does not apply to you. Then I asked if idiot was a word we should call people and you said no. Finally your dad thanked you for sharing this information with us and reminded you that you can tell us anything good or bad no matter what it is.
Boys, I would like to add a few things to our discussion yesterday. In this world you will encounter all types of people who will be very different from you. Many will be nice and others not so much. Some people may say things that are mean and hateful to hurt your feelings. But, just because someone uses a mean/hateful/derogatory word to describe you does not make their statement true. James 1:19 states that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. This will not be easy. It takes a great deal of maturity to practice these virtues. Generally our first instinct will be counter to this verse, however it can be done. If you think before you speak and act, it will save you from lots of heartache, pain and mistakes. Words are very powerful, therefore use them wisely. I will say it again because it bears repeating. Words are very powerful, therefore use them wisely. You can build up or tear down simply with words.
The world is full of judgmental people, who will quickly judge you solely on the fact that you are black males. You should not be surprised by this. Do not look to the world for your value. Find your value from the word of God. Let the word be your truth.
Love,
Mom
3 comments:
Loved this:
"James 1:19 states that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. This will not be easy. It takes a great deal of maturity to practice these virtues. Generally our first instinct will be counter to this verse, however it can be done. If you think before you speak and act, it will save you from lots of heartache, pain and mistakes. Words are very powerful, therefore use them wisely. I will say it again because it bears repeating. Words are very powerful, therefore use them wisely. You can build up or tear down simply with words."
Loved so much that i read three times and nodded in complete agreement each time.
how does the saying go? Guide a child while he is young and he will always remain close to such guidance...is that the correct saying?
Well, I believe you provided insight to such a saying. I agree - the thought process amid negativity is extremely important.
Good read.
Thanks Don.
Thank you for this. As a mother of 2 black young boys, I apprecaite your eloquence on this matter
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