” Always reward your long hours of labor and toil in the very best way, surrounded by your family. Nurture their love carefully, remembering that your children need models, not critics, and your own progress will hasten when you constantly strive to present your best side to your children. And even if you have failed at all else in the eyes of the world, if you have a loving family, you are a success.” — Og Mandino
This quote struck me like running into a brick wall. The reason: I am a natural critic. A God-given “talent” that is useful in some pursuits, however it wrecks havoc in relationships. It is my first response in any given situation. This tendency is something I am striving to overcome. I want to be an encourager and inspire people, expecially my children and husband to live for God in a joyful and fulfilling way.
While this is a tough task for me to accomplish, I realize it is not only a personal issue but a cultural and human issue as well. I certainly can’t think of anything this world needs more than great and godly role models. Due to this lack, we seek answers to life’s problems in Oprah, Phil, Hannah Montana, and other equally ineffective sources.
The greatest source of inspiration and motivation to do right is someone close to us who knows us and loves us even in our weakest moments. This means our family and those we come in face-to-face contact with everyday.
What kind of role model are you?
