I'm not naturally a "hugger." Though I was raised in the South, I don't go around greeting people (outside of my family) by wrapping my arms around them.
However, I have noticed that our daughters go through stages where they want lots of hugs and cuddles. Therefore, for their sake, I make the effort to become more physically affectionate. Because I love them, I will set aside my natural tendencies in order to meet their needs.
As our children grow older, I believe it will become even more important for me to show an interest in things they like doing. For example, both of our girls enjoy art. While I can appreciate viewing fine works of art, I don't relish the creative process. However, because they do, I need to learn enough about the subject to be able to discuss it with them and steer them in a direction that will help them further develop that passion.
As different as our children's interests may be from our own, one way to demonstrate our love is by joining them in their pursuit of knowledge and activities that appeal to them.
What interests might your children have that vary from your own?
I'm not an art person. At all. Thankfully Ken is, so he will be taking on art lessons in school :) Sophie is very much into figuring out how everything works {even the nitty gritty details} which is so not me. I'm slowly learning to be patient though....
ReplyDeleteI can't think of something my children have an interest in that I don't - I guess I'm one of those people who finds learning fascinating, no matter the subject. However I know when they get older there will probably be things I won't be interested in.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it's very important to facilitate learning in the areas of interest of our children - all these little things add up to make them who they are and who they will become, and if we're their teacher, then it's up to us to make it possible. This is definitely an advantage over school - schools can't possibly do this with so many children in the one classroom! :)
I can relate to this Tracey. Being the mother of two boys now, I must say with our oldest son, not all "boy" interests have come natural to me as he grows. =) I know hubby really helps out big time in nurturing him as a growing young man, but during the times my husband is away for periods of time, I can tell that my son is lacking that attention and energy that only his father can give (wrestling, building with tools, etc.). By the time my husband comes home, it's like "watch out...tackle Dad time!" :) I am trying to keep this in mind during his dad's absences, that I can somehow still build him up in God's purposes for his life as God sees fit.
ReplyDeleteHuman contact is so very important. I can't say how important it really is. Sometimes being wrapped in a loved ones arms is the only remedy to many of life's hurts.
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