Is it just me or is society excruciatingly frustrating these days? Perhaps we know or think we know too much. We live in the Information Age, but how much of it is false?
When Dave and I were raising our sons, we (as many of you, I’m sure) taught them compassion for others, respect for elders, manners and what we referred to at the time as “common courtesy”. You know the drill because your mom also taught you: don’t talk with your mouth full, don’t interrupt when someone else is talking, be considerate, tell the truth, etc.
Young children typically first learn the words “No” and “Mine” at an early age. They have to be taught to give up the me, me, me attitude and learn to share. Throughout the school years there are fights that break out on the playground as everyone seeks his own way and demands it loudly. Yelling and screaming escalate and usually result in a stand-off when finally an adult steps in to bring a voice of reason and to still the turbulent waters.
Where’s the adult today?
Watch people in a war of words with each other – even those who are supposedly on the same side. Turn on the TV (if you dare) and witness people yelling and screaming and talking over each other (“respect one another”; “don’t interrupt”). Hear people say things that are categorically false (“tell the truth”) but are EXPECTED to be accepted as true simply because of who is saying it.
I feel for parents today who are desperately trying to instill certain lessons in their children, yet all around are examples that are flashed before us each day virtually rendering those lessons mute.
Where have the role models gone? Why can’t people just grow up? Is there no adult in the room?
Lest we end on a depressing note, let’s examine our role in all of this. Does our voice escalate to get our point across, because, after all, we’re right? Do we say things to prove our point that we don’t know to be absolutely true? Do we interrupt to talk over others? Time to look in the mirror and start over. The next generation deserves that.
“But, prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was.” (James 1:22-24)
Words received. . . Thank you Teri, for a reminder in civility.
An unfortunate sign of the times – to which I recognize I have fallen prey.
So true! Social media has taking over in so many ways, some good and some bad. When raising our kids it seemed like challenging times, but now having grandkids the “Good Old Days” seem much easier now. I truly enjoy seeing a parent disciplining their kids( positive and comforting/explaining) when out in public or even a family enjoying dinner without any devices in their hands. My husband and I are so very pleased on how our grandkids are being raised in these ” trying” times. Thank you for message today!!
A world gone astray. Truth is still the truth but sadly fewer and fewer know what or WHO it is!
You know what, Teri, growing up hurts because it requires depriving the lusts of the flesh and eyes, and the pride of life. This doesn’t mean that I didn’t like your devotional because I do and you are spot on!
Timely thoughts for a shattered world. Thanks for the James 1:22-24 reference.
Very Good! Truth that requires self examination! Thanks, Teri
This is a good reminder. When I’m with my granddaughter, let the grown up in the room be ME!
So true! It’s so disappointing. And, a good reminder to always try to model better behavior. I do worry about my children and future grandchildren. These times……help us Jesus.
Love you Aunt Teri!