Almost nothing I see people buying these days is actually necessary. Are people so blind to advertisements that they really think that they need all this crap? Is it like this all across the world, or just in North America? Frightening to think about, no wonder all of our resources are dwindling. People think that changing little things here and there will help, and sure it does a little. But to save what we have left and restart, we really need to rethink our spending and living habits.
Kids out there are getting junk they don't need for holidays that mean nothing to them, stressing out the parents who need to work extra hours or not buy something they may need just to make junior happy. When did children take control of the world? If the kid isn't happy, it'll make him/her grow some character, patience and respect. From what I see on a day to day basis, parents have lost their backbones. This is a serious problem.
If you are a parent, and you know that when your child is unhappy, what do you do? If your answer is "anything to make him/her happy", it's wrong. Children should know what it feels like to be unhappy, sad, disappointed. It's all a part of growing up to be balanced. You should never be afraid to say no to ANYONE, least of all your own child. Remember that sometimes saying no will help them, even if they kick and scream for the time being. I have faith.
3 comments:
Hi - I just stumbled upon your blog from the "winners" list on Crunchy Chicken. I just wanted to say that I totally agree with you about children in this society. As a mother of two boys (ages 8 & 10), it actually makes me feel like I'm doing my job well if they are bored/sad/disappointed/frustrated once in a while. It's great for them!! And you're right...it teaches them patience and builds character. AND it makes them realize (I hope) which things are ultimately really important and which things aren't, in the long run, all that important.
Anyway, just wanted to say that you said it perfectly and I appreciated hearing it from someone else. This isn't always a popular way to feel about parenting.
Cheers!
Is it the parents, though? We don't really buy things for our son, and we try to filter the amount of crap he is given...and still my house is full of crap. We're actually giving away door prizes at a party this weekend - all things my sons grandparents sent him "just because".
Rosa, that doesn't count. Your children realize the importance of what they have, and are willing to give it away. That is an important characteristic. You have done a fine job, as far as I can see, and I encourage you to continue. Same for you Kristin, I'm glad that you realize the importance of character building. Thank you both for reading my thoughts. :)
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