because it is something I have never done before? For instance, I have a son who will be entering middle school next year. We have a slew of things beginning and ahead of us like girlfriends, facebook, twitter, and YouTube. A world where children own iPhones and have full access to the Internet. Am I the only one freaking out about this?!? In what world do we think it's ok for our children to have access to every pornographic site and every other reckless thing you can find on the Internet these days? Not to mention cyberbullying. Kids seem to feel like they can say anything they want to others on the web with no remorse or repercussions. If you don't believe me, just go look at a few videos on YouTube made by "kids" and then read the comments. Surely I'm not the only one disturbed by this?
This brings me to my thoughts tonight. My husband and I try really hard to be level-headed in our decisions as parents. I have always tried not to be panicky or too over-protective. I do, however, know in my heart that it is my job to protect my children from certain things. There's a reason why they put age levels on movies and games. Some of them are "not appropriate for children"even by Hollywood's standards. It's just really hard to find the balance sometimes. You know what I mean? I want my son to feel like he can move forward into adolescence and then manhood without his Mommy holding him back in any way. And yet... tonight I felt this piercing fear about letting go.
This got me thinking about Mama birds. They are sitting there in their nests with their fledglings preparing to send them off into the world....off into flight. Do you think they ever worry about whether one of their babies won't be ready or won't be able to fly? Do you think they ever try to hold them back? I just read an article about birds learning to fly that said, "When young birds are out, but cannot yet fly very well, there is much anxiety about them. Then, if any one comes around to disturb them, what can the poor little mother do? Sometimes she makes her young ones hide."Another article online said, "Baby birds are not usually kicked out of the nest. They are carefully monitored byt their parent(s) until they are fledged and ready to fly. Even after they begin flying, most remain with an adult or adults for a period of time while they are gaining their strength, during which time the adults may continue to feed them." Whew. At least I know it is not just me. Even Mama birds can have "anxiety" about their babies growing up and the dangers that exist for them in this world.
I have always loved the song, His Eye Is on the Sparrow. I especially love this version by Lauren Hill and Tanya Blount. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
"Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows" (Matthew 10:29-31)
This scripture gives me peace because I know that no matter waht happens when I am away from my kids, God knows, and He is protecting them. I should know this, He protected me throughout my middle school and high school years. Even in times that I never thought I would recover from, I look back and see God's protection in my life. I take great solace in knowing this exists for my children.
What are you worried about? Your kids, your future? Where do you find strength?
