Character Building HEROES

Guest blogger, Carol Olsen, is passionate about grandparents speaking into the lives of their grandchildren. Watch for more ideas from Carol in future posts on Faith First Parent. And please share with your family and friends! 

Who are your grandchildren’s heroes? Grandchildren and even you as a grandparent need worthy role models, heroes, who display good character. Unfortunately, esteemed heroes are few and far between.

Today, celebrities with questionable moral behavior are made enticing by the media and the culture. Helping a grandchild strive for good moral conduct is rewarding for both the grandparent and the grandchild. One simple way is to share stories of family members who have displayed moral courage and responsibility. Share the stories of your family’s heroes!

One such story is that of a great grandfather who was an entrepreneur and loved making deals.  He bought and sold property, owned a furniture store, and farmed as well. He was a man who believed in honor and prided himself in always keeping his word. His handshake was as good as any signed contract. He loved telling about the various pieces of property he bought and sold telling how his handshake and his word were enough. He lived up to the handshake promise, even when the outcome was not to his advantage. He credited his conduct to what he learned at his church, Our Saviors Lutheran Church. He learned that honesty was what Christ commanded.

Maybe you have a story of an ancestor who fought in World War II, marched for civil rights, worked in the mission field, or helped set up a food shelf. Whose story touched you sincerely? Share stories with your grandchildren, especially at bedtime. Embrace that opportunity. It’s a wonderful time to tell stories. Capitalize on scripture and Christ-like attributes. Family heritage stories help children feel a sense of belonging to a story bigger than themselves. Go a step further and find a picture of the ancestor to make the connection even greater.

So then as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone,
and
especially to those who are of the household of faith.
Galatians 6:10

© 2021 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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