Sweet Song by Eliza

This is a song that Eliza has been learning at preschool. She performed it during chapel at her school yesterday, and then did a solo performance for us last night before bed.

I've heard this song probably 100 times in the last few weeks and every time I love hearing it. It has such a deep meaning. Sometimes as a mother I think it's easy to forget that our ultimate goal is to raise our kids to be good and faithful human beings. It's easy to talk about all the things they should do or all the things they should say. We are quick to remind them of their manners and even quicker to correct bad behavior.

But what about OUR actions?

Children learn by the example they are given. This is especially obvious when they are young and learning things for the first time. They like to repeat what we've said, they like to mock our actions, and they like to follow us around and watch our every move. We are their first teachers, not only by what we say to them, but what we show them by our actions.

In this world we are surrounded by evil. Sin is everywhere we look. We can't even turn the news on without hearing about someone being kidnapped or shot. Our TV shows are full of what society calls "the new normal". Taking our children shopping, even just to the grocery store, can reveal the latest fashion trends that are less than modest. The culture of sex seems to surround us. Where is the goodness? Where are the values?

Those are up to us. WE must be the example for our children. Their little eyes see everything that we do. Their little ears hear the words that we say and how we say them. Their little hands repeat our own actions. The only way to reverse this culture of sin is to be the example that our children can mock. It's time we stop complaining about all the craziness out there and stand up and DO something.

Speak to your children with kind words, and know that they are listening when you speak to others. Do good deeds for others and encourage your children to help. Say prayers with your children and make sure your children see you praying on your own. We are the only ones who can make the future one of love, hope, and morality.

If my words don't touch your heart listen to Eliza sing that song again--and if she doesn't touch your heart I'm not sure what will.