I am visiting with my cousin Becky, a dedicated Missionary from South Africa.
Becky has been away from the family for 6 years now, beckoned by God to leave her long standing job with Telus and all of her possessions to help children in a far away land. Her obedience to the divine message has allowed all of the necessary doors to open which have provided her with everything she needs to sustain herself as a missionary.
Coming back to Canada once a year continues to be a culture shock for her.
Children afflicted with Aids and Hep B surround her daily, lives lost weekly, stabbings, corruption and poverty - everyday life. She chooses to embrace. She does not see kids in hospital beds - this is for the rich.
There are no toys, no teddy bears, wishes for kids, Christmas trees, carols, fancy baking, or fundraising events.
The children need food and medicine. They need support, education, and healthy mentorship.
Its all about perspective.
What Im reflecting about is OUR children here.
If you have children, or are an older sibling, or have some type of relationship with a child - give them your time.
Invest in the development of their character.
Play cards or a board game. Its remarkable how a simple game can teach a child so many values and life skills.
A game can provide opportunity to teach a child healthy competition, patience, self confidence, strategy, loosing gracefully and developing genuine excitement for your winning opponent.
Many valuable social skills can be developed within such a simple little opportunity.
So why do we opt for technology as parents?
As society leans towards virtual connections and television, our children and teens are living and playing independently. They miss out on these vital social opportunities.
As Becky pointed out to me - "its like we all live on our own little islands".
In the Christmas season - bake cookies with your kids.
Construct a gingerbread house.
Plan and cook your Christmas meal as a family.
Build a snowman.
Go skating on a pond.
Take in a hay ride.
Visit with friends and family.
Sing some carols.
Pick up some real games for your family.
Then think of the kids that cannot do these things.
There are quietly fighting in hospital beds.
Many of them cannot have family around them due to compromised immune systems.
Many are not wishing for toys, gadgets or things - they have greater wishes.
In a blink of an eye, our kids will grow up and start their own lives.
Grab your kid and play a game.
Well said. Thank you for this reminder of what is precious. Time with our kids.
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