Minute Message: Parents

Author: Norman Russell



	"Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt

me." Remember that? Did you say those words? Many of us no doubt had uttered

those words when we were young. We really thought it was true. NOW, we know

better. Those names were painful, even now, they at times come rushing back

into our minds reminding us of what our peers thought of us.



	As bad as those words were, they could not compare with some of the

things parents said to their children. Things like "Stupid", "Dumb", "You'll

never amount to anything..." and on and on it went. Kids grew up and became

adults with poor self images. They find it difficult to have positive 

relationships and they struggle with trying to find work that pays an

adequate salary. 



	Parents are given an awesome responsiblity when they bring children

into the world. They not only need food and shelter, they need emotional

support. They need to be told they are loved and they are special. They need

to hear the words of affirmation and support. 



	Children also need a relationship with God. Unless God becomes a

major influence in a child's life, efforts to raise healthy, responsible

adults will not be complete.



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