FAMILIES - THE POWER OF EXAMPLE

There was once an assembly at the bottom of the sea. The crabs had gathered. The oldest of them had summoned her to make a very important decision. Crayfish were everywhere, from the small seas of calm waters to the most agitated oceans.

Source

The meeting started punctually. The leader asked for the floor and said: - My friends, we have been doing something that has become a terrible example for everyone. It is a custom that we must change.

Very anxious, a young freshwater crayfish asked: - And what is that custom?

The old crab breathed deep. Very worried, he took the word again and continued: - I will say it without detours. We must stop walking backwards. Everyone uses us as a negative example, and they talk about us as if we were retrograde.

A red crab, who had come from far away, asked: - And what do you propose to remedy the terrible example we give?

The leader crab added: - I'll be realistic. For us it is already very difficult to change. But for small crabs, it will be easier. I propose that your moms teach them to walk forward.

The crabs were thrilled by the sincerity with which they had spoken and agreed with the proposal. In this way, it was established that all the crabs that were born from that moment, would be instructed by their mothers to walk forward.

Everyone returned to their home. Mothers began to teach their little ones. They guided their paws with love, first one forward, then the other. They insisted on the new way forward. The children tried to follow the instructions, although it was difficult and complicated.

Over time, something very curious happened. Their mothers told them the way they should walk, but they, and all the other crabs, kept walking backwards, as always.

• How do they do one thing and teach me another? - Said a small crab very studious.

The others asked the same. Some thought it was a joke. Others believed that it should be easier to walk back, because others did it that way.

In view of the insurgency, a new meeting of crabs had to be called.

• The rule I proposed is not working - admitted the leader crab, who always told the truth. And I add:

• And it does not work because we do not preach by example; and the truth is that we can not ask others to do what we do not do.

Legend has it that this is the reason why crabs keep walking backwards.

TO THINK AND PRACTICE

The lesson we can learn from this nice story is that others pay more attention to what we do than what we say.
It is very difficult to ask a child not to drink, if the father does; or require him to study, when we do not touch a book. We preach much more with the example than with all the words in the world.
The Romans said: "Exemplum Docet" (the example teaches); and Professor Dale Carnegie wrote: "The example is almost the only thing that teaches".
It is naive to think that, in order to influence others, our good intentions and beautiful words are enough. One educates in all areas even when not a single word is mentioned. The example is the most powerful educator that your family can have.
We suggest some ideas to teach by example:

Have a positive attitude "There are three essential things to enjoy life to the fullest: attitude, attitude, attitude" (Ernie Zelinski).
Dedicate quality time to your family. The most valuable legacy you can leave to the next generation is the time you share with them. That is priceless.
Bless always. It is never too late to pray and bless those you love.
Biblical reading: "Do not be satisfied with just listening to the word, for that is how you deceive yourselves. Take it to practice "(James 1:22).

Excerpt from the book "Families With the Future"

By José Luis and Silvia Cinalli

Exemplary Parents, Stable Children!

The best example we can give our children and those around us is to be like our Heavenly Father. It is the best example we must follow so that they can imitate them.

I. Be an example of integrity

Parents are the first model of a Christian life for children. The way to love and serve God becomes the greatest influence for them. What we speak and what we do is what will ultimately remain as teaching for the children.

II. Build your children with your words

Affection should not only be demonstrated, but expressed in words. Affirmation words are an important part of a child's personality. No matter how old they are, the words of the parents have a direct impact on the identity and esteem of the children. In this sense, all children should be treated in the same way, with the same care and love.

III. Train your children

Children should be counseled, taught and instructed by parents. King Solomon said "Train the child in his way and even when he is old he will not turn away from him" (Proverbs 22: 6). Biblical principles, education, respect and morals must first be learned at home. Churches and schools only strengthen what children learn at home.

IV. Provides food, care and protection

Parents are called to provide all the needs of the children. From the material sustenance that includes food, clothing and a roof, to the provision of care and protection, parents are the main providers for the children.

V. Discipline them when necessary

As part of parenting, discipline and correction should be applied when necessary. King Solomon said that "foolishness is bound to the heart of the boy, but the rod of correction will separate him from it" (Proverbs 22:15).

SAW. Be diligent in knowing the status of your children

We must be responsible in ensuring the spiritual and emotional state of the children. You should never assume that everything is fine. Pay attention to your words, attitudes and reactions. Talk to them, ask them questions, share time with your children and make sure there is nothing that puts their spiritual and emotional health at risk.

VII. Select your friends

As part of the care and protection, parents must ensure the friendships of their children. From friends in the neighborhood, at school and even friends within the church, everyone can be a positive or negative influence.

VIII. Pray for them

The most powerful and effective prayer for a child comes through the parents. Intercede for them at all times by decreeing protection over their lives, declaring the promises and purpose of God over them. In this sense we must not forget that a great part of the miracles that Jesus did in the Gospels were preceded by the prayer of a father or a mother.