When I was growing up, children were taught to respect their elders: we addressed adults formally, didn't "talk back" and at table held our tongues. Back then, parents were far more strict than most are today, instilling the fear of God in their offspring, no doubt with the goal of keeping them out of trouble while molding them into responsible adults. Sometimes it worked - sometimes not
Taylor Caldwell's novel, "Brightly Flows the River" illustrates what happens when children are over indulged. The boy and girl grew into adults who felt "entitled" and lacked the skills they needed to make their way in life. They were so rude and ill behaved their own father grew to hate them.
On the other hand, well-behaved children are a joy to be around. One only needs recall the popular TV programs, "The Cosbys" and "The Wonder Years" to see parents who kept their children on the straight and narrow, doling out appropriate punishment whenever they strayed.
In "Halifax", Ellie's sister Carrie believes her daughters are God's gift to mankind and treats them accordingly. The results aren't pretty.
On this Mother's Day weekend, I wish for you children who know how to "mind their manners" and treat you with the love and respect you so richly deserve. If they don't, perhaps it's time to take inventory of your parenting skills so your little darlings don't end up being - to use a time-worn phrase, "spoiled brats". No one wants that.
Taylor Caldwell's novel, "Brightly Flows the River" illustrates what happens when children are over indulged. The boy and girl grew into adults who felt "entitled" and lacked the skills they needed to make their way in life. They were so rude and ill behaved their own father grew to hate them.
On the other hand, well-behaved children are a joy to be around. One only needs recall the popular TV programs, "The Cosbys" and "The Wonder Years" to see parents who kept their children on the straight and narrow, doling out appropriate punishment whenever they strayed.
In "Halifax", Ellie's sister Carrie believes her daughters are God's gift to mankind and treats them accordingly. The results aren't pretty.
On this Mother's Day weekend, I wish for you children who know how to "mind their manners" and treat you with the love and respect you so richly deserve. If they don't, perhaps it's time to take inventory of your parenting skills so your little darlings don't end up being - to use a time-worn phrase, "spoiled brats". No one wants that.
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