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BY CARRIE STEINWEG
Times Correspondent | Tuesday, December 02, 2008 | (No comments posted.)
As parents, there are many values we aim to instill in our children. One I think is most important is teaching our children to be thankful and show appreciation.
It seems the adults I encounter who are truly thankful for what they have lead pretty happy lives. It makes them kinder and more generous toward others when they are aware they have so many gifts right in front of them.
November is truly a month to be grateful. Early in the month, we recognize Veterans Day and honor all the men and women who have provided us with the freedom we have. We end the month with a day set apart for giving thanks and feasting with family and friends.
For young children, the concept of gratitude doesn't sink in as easily as it does for teens and adults. They may not have ever had to work hard for something or make meaningful sacrifices. Most things are done for them or given to them, but they can definitely feel empathy and know when they have something that makes them happy.
Throughout the year, we send care packages to troops overseas.
Even my youngest kids get involved in the process by packing boxes, making drawings or cards or picking out some of their small toys to enclose so the troops can pass them on to less-fortunate kids they come across. They have fun doing the job, and I try to convey the idea they should be thankful for what they have and for the "Army guys," as they call them, who serve our country.
The young people serving are sacrificing so much. Among the families I've been in touch with are a mom who just gave birth and whose husband won't meet his son for six weeks and then will return overseas after three weeks; a man who married and then reported for his deployment within a few days; and a family where both parents are deployed and will miss Christmas with their two children.
Although young kids might not quite get it, getting across the importance of gratitude does get through in some form. When I asked some of my boys what they were thankful for, I got several responses of video games and toys.
I really hoped one of them would reply with some of the true gifts they have that other kids around the world might not -- a home, a warm bed, running water, food, people who love them. So I was pleased when my 7-year-old responded, "I'm thankful for Uncle Mark." Then a big smile appeared on his face and he continued, "Because every time I see him he gives me dollars and candy!"
Hey, I got half the answer I was looking for.
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. Carrie Steinweg, the mother of five, lives in Lansing. Her column alternates with that of Schererville mom Rebecca Bailey. She can be reached at csteinw@yahoo.com.
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