The Sucess Of Our Children

     It all starts with their first finger painting that lands on the most prestious display ever sought after...the front of our refrigerator. With all the talent of a Moishe, it dazzles all that gaze on it, especially parents and grandparents, who ohh and ahh over it so much that the child artist can not help but beam with pride and accomplishment. This is the first stone of your child's success. Soon other stones will be added from learning skills like first words, reading, knowing what is right from wrong to physical skills of balance, walking and of course sports. These stones when applied with love, understanding, patience and guidance builds such a strong foundation on a child's character that he or she can not help but succeed on.
     A child needs to know how it feels to lose to better understand and appreciate how it feels to win...another stone has been laid. The more stones the broader the confidence of the child. This child will be willing to take a risk, see a broader picture, think outside the box. This is where moral values come into play, after all this as parents is one of our most important duties is to teach our children to put value in helping others. If this was practiced ny all parents the act of bullying would be obsolete, for bullying is a learned act, made possible from observing others. We are taught at an early age to share what we have but for many of us that concept flies out the window when we become adults. The greed and selfishness we display is right there for little minds to mimic.
     If we continue to build strong and positive character stones for our children we will see a firm foundation of a very successful individual, filled with accomplishment, morals, and confidence. Isn't that what all parents want for their child. The joy of watching my sons grow into adulthood and parenthood with all the confidence that seems to push them more and more into discovering new talents and interest is only second to watching them embrace the daily task of laying each stone of character building in their own children. A foundation built with love, commitment, laughter and faith in God. On this October 30th I want to wish my youngest son Jeremy a wonderful 31st Birthday. May your children bring you as much happiness and laughter that you and your brother have brought to me and your Dad. For all you parents out there just remember every child's success starts with that first stone. Have a great day Jer! Aunt Onie