SEASON 7, EPISODE 6, “PORTRAIT OF LOVE”

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FLEX YOUR MUSCLES

“Sometimes we just have to make people do things whether they like it or not, for their own good.”

—CAROLINE INGALLS

As a parent, I often struggle to make the right decisions for my children. My son and daughter don’t always want to invest the time or energy in the activities I believe will benefit them. I’m tempted to let them have the final say just to keep the peace, even though I feel strongly about my point of view. Caroline Ingalls gives her share of advice to her neighbors and friends concerning their children. She reminds us also to flex our parental muscles and listen to our internal voice of wisdom.

A few months ago, my son had to decide on electives for the upcoming school year. We didn’t agree on his choices. As I was talking to my mom later that night, she told me a story.

In junior high, she found herself in the same position as my son. She wanted to take ceramics, but her mother insisted on a public speaking class. Speaking had always been a challenge because she stuttered. Nothing my mother said could change my grandmother’s mind. Mom was forced to take the class, overcame her impediment, and the next semester made beautiful pottery.

My mom told me the speech class was the best she could have taken. Now she speaks in front of people regularly, leads a grief group at her church, and is often the first person to share a memory or story in a large gathering. Her mother wasn’t afraid to stand firm on her conviction. The story gave me courage to do the same.

We all need help making the right decisions. Outside of God’s Word, our greatest resources are the parents and role models He puts in our lives. We don’t always accept their words of wisdom. Even Caroline has to go against a young woman’s wishes for her own good. Listening to godly advice will prepare you to share your wisdom with others.

Good friend, follow your father’s good advice; don’t wander from your mother’s teachings. . . . For sound advice is a beacon, good teaching is a light, moral discipline is a life path.

PROVERBS 6:20–23 MSG

Has anyone ever persuaded you to do something you didn’t want to do? How did it work out? Can your wisdom help someone make a decision?