Teaching Children Patriotism
by Maxine A. Randall
(from July/August, 2008 HCG newsletter)
(from July/August, 2008 HCG newsletter)
I've finally gotten back to walking for exercise and is it ever needful. A side benefit to these daily walks is that it's a good time to think, and sometimes pray, about many things. Recently I noticed something I hadn't noticed before, probably because I hadn't paid attention. I took note that very few houses have an American flag displayed anywhere. I began to think about and ponder what this might mean.
Is patriotism dying in our country? You know, I think it is in my neck of the woods and I wonder how it's faring in yours. So what does this mean for the next generation and what, if anything can you and I do about it? I know I'm asking many questions and, sadly, don't have many answers. However, I do believe this: Even though we may be seeing a weaker nation, a larger number of patriotic people can help make it stronger. Hopefully, you agree; because if you do, there is something you can do: teach your children to love America, even while acknowledging her failings.
You don't "drop" your loved ones and stop wishing the best for them when they go astray. You don't talk viciously about them and accuse them of every imaginable wrongdoing. You don't disown them or degrade them or desecrate their name. No, you continue to love them, wanting the best for them, and certainly you do not cease praying for them. So it is with respect to your love of country.
"Children are our most valuable natural resource."
The above quote by President Herbert Hoover was the SG Speakable in the Quotes category for the May/June period. I'd say it fits. What better resource do we have for the future than our children? I heard it said somewhere that they are messengers we send to a time we may never see ourselves. Let's go for a stronger America in the age to come. By precept and example, let's teach our children to love her. Here's what may grow out of that love, especially if it flows out of a love for God:
So you are probably saying: "You're dreaming, Maxine." Yes, I am. Martin Luther King, Jr. had his dream and this is mine. It's one of several dreams I have for my children and grandchildren. I hope you have the same dream for yours. If you do, teach them patriotism. I hope the few links following will be of some help along those lines. These are not all Christian sites, so you may need to sift through anything that wouldn't work for your family, but by all means, pick and choose wherever applications can be made.
"Children are our most valuable natural resource."
The above quote by President Herbert Hoover was the SG Speakable in the Quotes category for the May/June period. I'd say it fits. What better resource do we have for the future than our children? I heard it said somewhere that they are messengers we send to a time we may never see ourselves. Let's go for a stronger America in the age to come. By precept and example, let's teach our children to love her. Here's what may grow out of that love, especially if it flows out of a love for God:
- The next generation will pray diligently for our leaders, not only the ones with whom they agree, but also, and especially, for those who they believe are on the wrong path.
- The next generation will learn more of the details of American History and come to a better understanding of what made this nation great in the first place.
- The next generation will become involved in righteous activities which will lawfully bring about the changes needed to help guide America on a path leading back to God
- The next generation will exercise their right to vote. They will exercise this right to the glory of God and for the good of the peace and prosperity of the land. They will do their utmost to vote for honest governmental officials, who have integrity and principles which coincide with the Word of God.
- The next generation will know that world history teaches an important reality: The Lord will bless or curse this land in a large measure as a result of the direction it goes in public policies. This coming generation will, and must do all they can to see that the political course on which the country is travelling is turned around or else all blessings will be lost.
So you are probably saying: "You're dreaming, Maxine." Yes, I am. Martin Luther King, Jr. had his dream and this is mine. It's one of several dreams I have for my children and grandchildren. I hope you have the same dream for yours. If you do, teach them patriotism. I hope the few links following will be of some help along those lines. These are not all Christian sites, so you may need to sift through anything that wouldn't work for your family, but by all means, pick and choose wherever applications can be made.
ENCHANTED LEARNING
Even though this page is for July 4th crafts, you'll see that many of the activities are
appropriate for any patriotic project, even for school projects. Just doing an activity is
one way to say "I love my country." Some are great for American History.
Even though this page is for July 4th crafts, you'll see that many of the activities are
appropriate for any patriotic project, even for school projects. Just doing an activity is
one way to say "I love my country." Some are great for American History.
MrDONN.ORG
The primary focus at this site is patriotic symbols. You'll find lesson plans, games,
coloring pages, activities, and many links to facts, facts, and more facts.
It's hard to come away from this place without some measure of patriotism. Enjoy!
The primary focus at this site is patriotic symbols. You'll find lesson plans, games,
coloring pages, activities, and many links to facts, facts, and more facts.
It's hard to come away from this place without some measure of patriotism. Enjoy!
EZINE ARTICLES.COM
I enjoyed this article by Mr. Coffman, because it pretty much sums up what this feature
in this newsletter is really all about. Please read it--it's not long.
I enjoyed this article by Mr. Coffman, because it pretty much sums up what this feature
in this newsletter is really all about. Please read it--it's not long.
