V is for Value. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21
We all treasure our children and love them unconditionally, yet somehow most children struggle (especially as teenagers) with their sense of value. It makes me think: love and affection alone does not sufficiently communicate value. What, then, instills value in our children? How about their value in the eyes of their creator? Psalm 139 is a great starting point. The Gospel is also a great picture of value. How about the ways he provides for our wants and needs? There are so many more examples. Let's take our children through the many truths and many tangible ways God shows His children that they are valuable. And in doing so, as parents, we will have conveyed value through our strongest language of value: quality time.
U is for Unity.
My husband and I used to say we'd never argue in front of our kids. Then we had kids. Then we experienced how truly sinful our natures. Unity between mom and dad does more for a child's security and well-being than we realize, I believe. Our kids act as though they are busy at play...but really, they hear every word exchanged between the two people they love the most. I am consciously choosing to present myself unified with my husband before my children, taking all concerns and disagreement to him privately. Will you consider doing the same?
T is for Toys.
I have never been a big fan of the in-today-out-tomorrow circulation of the latest and greatest toys on the market. I grew even more dubious when I read this. All I know is, kids are happy and creative with a whole lot less than we attempt to pacify them with. The appetite for bigger, better, more, cooler, shinier, faster is cultivated. Isn't it that way with grown-up toys as well? The more we focus and dwell on what new thing we must have, the greater the appetite to satiate. In pursuit of being a No-Regrets Mom, I desire to model contentment for my children. Try making a "toy" for your child today, or forgoing the battery-operated for conversation and experience. Circulate your child's current stash of toys--it'll always feel like something's new. Or how about going through the toy room with your child and weeding out half of his collection for donation. Just some ideas...what are yours?