Chapter 11 covered the inner need of boys to compete, and the emotions involved in playing, or not being picked to a play, a sport. It was a call to encourage your child to play his best, to grow in his endeavors, and to be a supportive voice from the sidelines (for your own kid, other kids, and even coaches and refs). Although this chapter didn't seem to foster lots of discussion among us, it was a good reminder of the potential heartbreak it can be to a kid to not make a team, or not play a sport as well as a brother, classmate, or, worse yet, a girl.
Chapter 12 was a much more thought provoking chapter (well, according to those of us there last night). The chapter really focused in on the male-bashing that happens on a daily basis that is socially acceptable. Dr. Dobson is careful to state (a couple times) that he is happy to see women obtaining "equality" in areas of fair pay, job opportunities, etc. However, the culture, at large, has made men the brunt of many jokes that would be completely and utterly unacceptable if aimed at a woman.
We (the moms present) took some time to evaluate whether or not we participate in those jokes...do we make snide comments about our husbands, or men in general, being "so stupid"? Do we have thoughts of superiority over our husbands? Do we allow those feelings to pour over into our daily actions? Actions that will affect our husbands and our sons' egos and morale? We left with the encouragement that God created us different. The things that we are good at, our husbands may not be. But God has created men to be great at things that we women are not. Society is trying to blur those lines...lines that God created! We need to try to affirm the good and "manly" things about our husbands! Thank them for working hard at their job, whatever it may be. Affirm them in providing for your family, however that may look in your home! We don't need to pressure them or deride them for not being able to "keep up" with the chores, child-rearing, or other things that we are gifted at and able to attend to in the home. Encourage your sons to do things they are good at, and even try some things they are not.
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2 comments:
Jamie, that last paragraph was fabulously written. I have been thinking all week about those lines that can so easily become blurred and trying to make sure I am giving Bryan that respect (and not laughing at the "anti-man" jokes on tv). All that to say it was a good discussion. Hope it was okay that I commented on the blog.
Cory
It is good to be aware. i wouldn't want Aaron making fun of me for not being good at mowing the lawn or changing the oil. How fortunate that we are created differently and can compliment each other.
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