As I conversed with one of my students today she said something that made me think. I mentioned to her that I met one of her friends and that I wanted C.J. to have a similar Sweet sixteen party. She told me not to make C.J. be something that she did not want to be. That struck a cord because I do not ever want to mix wanting whats best for my child with trying to plan her life. As an educator I encounter many parents and I always say the same thing, "Man, I do not want to be like them!"
As a parent one must understand that their role is to provide, lead, guide and protect. It is not to live. C.J. is a person made in God's image. She has her mold and God crafted her and blew the breath of life in her nostrils. Now, I can try to persuade and instill all I want but ultimately it will be C.J's decision on what she wants to be. I have to make sure I live this out. It seems that their is a stupid parent syndrome that is airborne and anyone can catch it. I want C.J. to have the same opportunities I had to explore all options and have the support from home.
I usually enlighten my students but today one came through with a nugget for me. To C.J., you can be whatever you like sweetheart! I am out my good peoples, always remember to pray becasue prayer changes things.
