"A Good Dad and a Good Dog"

     According to some research that I read at some point, it was stated that a good dad and a good dog are the keys to raising responsible, respectful and relational young men.  Our discussion at the "Dads' Night Out" at St. Mary's International Middle School last night was a good indication that there are many boys at our school who are well on the way to being the kinds of young men we hope them to become because of the influence their fathers are having.

     If you were not able to attend last night you might want to look at:  Crews Missile to think about the issues to this father's choices about all kinds of things and the effect these choices might have on his children.  It is also a good starting point for all of us to think about the kinds of relationships we might like to have with our children when they are at different stages of their development and how our actions each day helps move toward that desired relationship in the future.

     You might also might want to check out the story Arun Gandhi tells about the time he lies to his grandfather.

Walking Home  This story points out how reflecting about our parenting and its effect on our children goes to the heart of good parenting practice.  It is difficult, if not impossible, to change the behaviors of your children if you don't change your own and if you are happy with the status quo then it's important to keep doing what you are doing.  Expecting different outcomes as a result of doing the same things over and over is an illogical thought process.

     Any ideas on how we can continue the conversation from last night are much appreciated.  Thanks to all for what you are doing to support the work we are doing at St. Mary's International School.