Anne Keckler

E-mail: raymondkeckler@yahoo.com

Homepage: Fruitful Acres

Anne's Thoughts on Gentle Mothering

1. What does gentle mothering mean to you?

To meet the needs of my child, at each stage of his life, in the calmest, most gentle way possible. I practice homebirth, extended breastfeeding, family bed, non-immunizing, non-circumcising, and homeschooling.

2. Why is gentle mothering important?

Children are indeed a gift from God. We are told to not provoke them to wrath.

Also, I tend to think of my job being (partly) to make memories for my children. I want them to have good memories of their childhoods, and a good relationship with their parents. I want them to trust me.

3. Why does God want you to parent this way?

Number One: The Bible says so.

Also, it seems to me that God created us this way. Why did God make a mother's heart so tender? Some would call it nature. That's fine. But who created nature?

Anne's Testimony

I grew up Baptist. I was taught the Bible, but did not see it practiced.

Many years later I was researching homebirth and I came across information on the Amish. From there I also learned about Mennonites. I was amazed to find people who actually try to live as the Bible teaches! So I looked into it further. (I was an atheist at this time.) I made some changes in my lifestyle, but it didn't satisfy me. I finally did realize my need for a savior, and that the only way Christ would save me was if I accepted Him as Lord over every aspect of my life.

Visit Anne's page Our Faith for more information on what she believes.