Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
Mowgli is 14 and unearthed his sulky self about a year ago, just as Blue Boy was discarding his own. Although we have lived through the adolescence of several children and should know the drill, it was a surprise when Mowgli showed a hint of civility this morning.
Now, sometimes the civility is a precursor to requesting a favor. That type of courtesy is accompanied by excitement and even a smile or cursory hug.
But this morning no favor was demanded. Mike and I were leaving to meet family for a breakfast date when Mowgli walked into the kitchen and I informed him of our plans.
“OK, have a good time.”
Huh? Is there a chink in the armor?
It’s always fun to watch people we knew as awkward adolescents navigate as adults. It is also hopeful.
C-boy was rarely disrespectful. But for years he kept the curtains in his bedroom closed. One morning seeing light coming through the hallway, I went to his room assuming he had left the television on.
No, the curtains were wide open, letting in the light. I had to order new blinds.
We have been blessed with the children in our family. All have gone good ways. I hold fast to that promise in Proverbs. I just hope I don’t have to wait until my grandchildren are old.
