Help
With Your Rule
A Child's Rule of Life
Dear Holly,
When helping your children to make their own rule of life, what are the Five Ps for them? Our nine children are ages 3 to 22. Two are going off to college.
Labels: 4th P Parent, About a Rule of Life
posted by Holly at 10:21 AM
2 Comments:
First of all, my apologies to the woman who asked me this question way back in July - I have been pondering it ever since you wrote!
I guess I think that the child's rule of life falls within the universal vocation of all people - to attend to the first two Ps first.
So, The child's focus on prayer & sacraments & faith formation heads the list (or at least a reasonable inclusion of these on a daily basis with the family and alone, as fits the child's temperament and circumstances)
Secondly, I see the development of their person as their 2nd P - the attention and formation of their bodies thru good health,nutrition, exercise,rest and skills... the formation of their intellect in truth and reason and knowledge... the formation of their will in relation to choosing good moral decisions and learning how to do this... the formation of their hearts in kowing the love of family and God, and learning how to feel and express emotion under the guidance of reason... the formation of the imagination thru creative ventures aimed at gloryifying God and expression of beauty...
So, I guess this means then, their "education" or "Formation" as a person and Christian defines their present mission in this world as a child.
For those who live at home, the relationships with family members and the home (including chores) becomes a third priority. Fourthly then would be incorporation into church and community, as well as their own particular 'job' such as part time work, etc.
Once a child moves out of the home, the 1st two Ps remain the same as for all of us - God and person - but then the remaining Ps depend upon their particular vocational training and the charism and mission of each. University training and professional training would factor into their vocational calling.
That's what I think the basic priorities of a child' life are. Readers, feel free to add as the Holy Spirit's insight guides you.
THank you. I also was wondering about this.
Post a Comment
<< Home