And I find myself in a quandary, for how do I love in tangible ways my boy becoming a man?
This is what I have learned...
Let him explore his surroundings, developing his leadership skills, talents, and gifts, expanding his interests, and discovering how to serve others.
Offer help and support, but don't be offended if he doesn't want it. Instead, be creative in your support.
Value his ideas and opinions. Sure he is only 12, but God gave him a thinking mind, let him use it.
Encourage him to grow into the man God intended. Don't get caught up in comparisons, and become critical. Instead, be his biggest cheerleader.
...but most of all, I must remember, 12 is a stepping stone along the way to manhood...there is purpose in these adolescent days, and I don't want to wish them away, no matter how difficult the day may be...
~ Dorie
Possible Resources for the Journey
for parents ~
Bringing Up Boys, by Dr. James Dobson
The Way of the Wild Heart, by John Eldredge
Raising a Modern-Day Knight, by Robert Lewis
for parents and boys ~
An Honorable Boy, by Michelle Zoppa
Boyhood and Beyond, by Bob Schultz
Created for Work, by Bob Schultz
Practical Happiness, by Bob Schultz
Every Young Man's Battle, by Stephen Arterburn
It's a joy watching our boys grow up, isn't it. Beautiful post!
ReplyDeleteOh this is great for me, thanks for sharing this ~ my oldest is 12 and it's so easy to forget that he is a boy becoming a young man, instead of my wee-little baby. :)
ReplyDeleteI've read the last two book under {parents}, but don't think I've read that first one by Dobson, will have to look into that. Loved the other two!! Also will check out the other ones for my son, thanks!