PARENTING TIPS FROM THE OLD EDUCATOR

Overcoming Chagrin Moments Develops Character

 

Dealing with tough times elevates us to a higher position. Most people don’t want to deal with “sticky” or difficult matters. It’s just the way we are. We don’t like a deal that’s gone sour. We’d much prefer to be problem-free and avoid chagrin moments, even though they have the potential to make us better.

 

Abraham Lincoln faced many disappointments in his lifetime. David Thomas, founder of Wendy’s, was an orphan as a child. Socrates told us, “Contentment is a natural wealth; luxury an artificial poverty.” From Difficulty, we learn to persevere.

 

A young lady suffered from meningitis and a stroke. Her wish to become a teacher was no longer an option since she couldn’t walk or speak clearly. She told her family she would be fine and didn’t want any sympathy. In reality, there was little hope she’d ever breathe again on her own. Yet over time and with the intervention of a divine power, she began to speak broken statements, move her right arm and breathe for short periods.

 

Through support from family and caregivers, the young lady did not see herself as disabled. She continued to get stronger and eventually believed her condition was a blessing. She now writes for a magazine, participates in county-wide education classes and has committed to marketing a transcript through a literary agent about her affliction. She does not dwell on what she lost. Her faith gives her a positive outlook.  A great source of strength came from her caregiver who sang, Amazing Grace, to her every day. "Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me....I once was lost but now am found, was blind, but now, I see.”

 

Beethoven, the famous music composer, started going deaf at the age of 26. He suffered a severe hearing loss in 1812, during the completion of the Seventh Symphony. This was the worst possible fate for a musician, yet it had a powerful influence on his music. His handicap required him to look deeper within himself to create a sound reflecting sensitivity and suffering.

 

Suffering produces perseverance, character and hope. Knowing this, why do we shelter children so much from it? Why do enabling parents run to the rescue to defuse consequences earned by children? Troubled times teach children what parents cannot as they gravitate toward maturity.

 

Living in Florida year round, the changing seasons aren’t noticed as much and therefore are not appreciated. The month of May is relished more by those suffering through harsh winters. Pain and pleasure work together to improve the lives of children. Difficult moments develop character and maturity. By remaining steadfast and dealing effectively with chagrin moments, their lives are enriched.