Parents and Their Examples to Children

Most times, we are too close to a situation to see or understand a problem. When we hear stories like the ones concerning problems with youth today, the first question that comes to mind is, "How can something like this happen? When we were younger, this never occurred." Most parents often forget that this is the future and children are exposed to much more different lifestyles than they were. When we think about it, we have to admit that we did things completely opposite of our own parents. Most of the adults that were here before us, stressed the importance of character, honesty and respect for oneself.

Nowadays, everyone feels that success is measured by the amount of money that can be made. It's a concept that has been carried into every aspect of our lives. This part of our lives is where respect, honesty and accountability don't matter. The mindset that is being drilled into youth today is, "Make it anyway you can. Don't worry about anyone but yourself." How long will this phrase last until another phrase takes over?

I recently saw a TV magazine article show that looked at how children's sports have changed. Parents are pushing their children's to win at all costs, whether that means cheating, injuring an opponent or disobeying officials. The show carried reports of officials being attacked by parents who disagreed with a call. Parents would get into explosive arguments with opposing team parents over the calls. Through everything however, the children were the ones who remained calm and continued to be friends.

Thinking or believing that their children can receive high salaries; parents drive them to excel in sports or the entertainment fields. The attitude in small situations which are held on the athletic field is carried much further. When children are taught that it is OK to question sports officials, what makes you think that they won't also question the authority of those at school or the police? That's where blaming of movies, TV, music and other forms of amusement takes place when children display unacceptable behavior. The forms of amusement are temporary of at least 3-4 hours a day, but parents are with their children for nearly 18 years. Young people need supervision and guidance that should come from their parents or guardians.

It's understandable that raising children is a difficult and expensive job. But at times, the adults, get too caught up in the rat race to remember the standards and values that they were taught. If our views and concepts have changed, why should we be surprised that our children can be influenced? Closer supervision and making an effort to better understand young people maybe an answer.