Be Kind and Gentle
During my time of working with “at risk” teens, one of the most frequent pieces of advice I would give to parents is to model the things you want your child to learn. Children learn much more from our actions than they ever do from our words. In my own life I think back to my best teachers and can’t really remember much of what they said to me, though I recall with gratitude how they treated those around them. On this Father’s Day, I share a quote from St. Seraphim of Sarov. This quote was introduced to me by Fr. Stephen Freeman who writes at Glory to God for All Things.
You cannot be too gentle, too kind.Shun even to appear harsh in your treatment of each other.
Joy, radiant joy, streams from the face of him who gives and kindles joy in the heart of him who receives.
All condemnation is from the devil. Never condemn each other…
Instead of condemning others, strive to reach inner peace.
Keep silent, refrain from judgment. This will raise you above the deadly arrows of slander, insult, and outrage and will shield your glowing hearts against all evil.
The Internet Monk also has some great thoughts over at his site in a post called Thoughts and Questions for Parents on Father’s Day. Check it out when you get a chance!
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Thank you Father for your prayers, and for the post. It is good to be reminded to be kind and gentle…always!
Pax Christi
Did this guy have a three year old?! just kidding
Thank you Father for the wonderful reminder!
I love the quote from St. Seraphim. Being kind is not difficult for me, but being gentle is not easy. The quote reminded me that I need to keep trying and asking for God’s help.
Great quote. Peace begins with each of us. I need to try to be more silent and gentle.