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What Have I Taught?
By Betty Parkes
If my children can quote Shakespere with feeling and understanding..... but think only of themselves, then what have I taught?
If they can spell scientific words .... orally and write them in 16 page reports ...... but have no compassion for others, then what have I taught?
If they can work algebraic equations ..... but do not think of how their words or actions may affect someone else..... then what have I taught?
If my highschooler gets into Harvard ..... but doesn't have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ .... then what have I taught?
If my children are in the 99th percentile rankings on all their
standardized tests...... but resent being with their family...... then what have I taught?
If my nine year old reads Tolstoy and my seven year old knows all the times tables..... but they cannot play together without hurt feelings and tears .... then what have I taught?
There has to be a way..... of building their character and giving them the instruction that they need to do well in the eyes of the world.... yes I know, knowing Shakespere, and algebra are important, but it is priorities that concern me. I see many children who are well educated. But, I see
few who have manners. Few who are polite to their "elders". Few who would put another's needs (much less their wants) in front of another. To build the life of Christ into a child, is the greatest goal..... not spelling,
arithemetic, or geography. Not even history or "creation" can replace the deep need for a generation of children, to be brought up first in the "nurture and admonition" of the Lord. If the people I see were half as concerned if Johnny or Jane had compassion on their "brother" as they are
with getting into Harvard, this world and the one to come would be an entirely different place to "visit"!!!!!