Always Changing, Always Learning

Wanna know a secret? I don’t like chocolate anymore (Please don’t tell my grandma.)

The thing is, my grandma has been making me fudge ever since I can remember and I don’t have the heart to tell her I don’t like it anymore. Here’s the thing: Kids change constantly. But it’s not just the little ones; middle schoolers, high schoolers and even adults change. We change and grow because that is the way of life. The thing is, we need growth. Growth brings out new characteristics in us and molds us into resilient people. Change is good. One of the hard parts about being a parent is understanding that your child is their own person and the more they grow and change the more they make meaning for themselves. I don’t just mean their interests change, but also the way they view the world, their knowledge, and even more importantly, their spirituality.

How well do you know your kid right now? What are they passionate about? What makes them smile? Who are their friends? What’s their favorite subject? What did they learn at school? What makes them upset?

All these questions have new answers to kids who are on the move, growing and becoming more into who they are and how God created them. Take the time to know your kids as they change and also allow them to know you as you change. How well do your kids know you? Relationships are a two way street. Yes, even with your kids.

The most exciting thing about having kids is being in relationship with them and getting the joy of watching them grow and form. So take every advantage to know who your kids are in every stage of life. Who knows, they just might teach and inspire you.

Mackenzee Clepper
Children & Family Minister