Articles

How to get your kids to obey

As we strive to develop the virtue of obedience in our children, we need to keep in mind that the purpose of obedience is not just so that our children get their school work and chores done without arguing or whining. Nor is it simply a matter of keeping peace in the house and annoying behavior at bay. Our reasons for making our children practice the virtue of obedience…

Pre-marriage Questions to Ask

In a world where divorce is rife, maybe young people feel that they can apply their “go with the flow” and “it’ll be right” attitudes to marriage. Wrong. The break-up of a marriage is no laughing matter, and part of its prevention would be asking the tough questions while dating – as brought up by this recent New York Times article.

The lost world of Ramona Quimby

Why do Beverly Cleary’s young characters seem to have more time? “I think children today have a tough time, because they don’t have the freedom to run around as I did—and they have so many scheduled activities.” That was Beverly Cleary speaking to the Washington Post this week.

Family Movies

Many families sit together for a weekly family movie night. It is a great time to relax, watch a great movie and maybe have some popcorn. Well-chosen movies provide enjoyment, insight and criteria. They also act as powerful role models for our children. Good parents try to ensure that their family values are underlined and not undermined by what they are viewing. It becomes increasingly difficult as kids get older to find good movies that provide wholesome entertainment without offending our family values.

The Importance of Reading

We can always know more and better. As human beings we are open to the infinite, although we cannot contain it all. Reading can be much more than a pleasant pastime. It can be a preparation for life. Good books challenge, thrill, excite and awaken us to the potential drama of life, especially to the drama of a life lived for the highest ideals. Through them we meet people of different types and we become better judges of character. Like true friends, good books encourage us to be our best selves.