What's Your Problem?

So, what's your problem?

Do you have one?

I do.

My problem was how I was spending my time.  My problem is that I only have about 4-8 more years where I have the most access to my children's hearts.  Between the ages of around 4-12 is when you have the greatest access into your child's heart.  Sure, you have influence before and after those years, but I'm talking about the sweet spot.  The sweet spot is between ages 4-12.  The soil of their hearts is so fertile and receptive during these years.  It has nothing to do with where they go to school.  It has everything to do with you being available with the time you do have with them.

I can tell you first hand that even though my boys are with me all day and night, I can check out for days and be unavailable.  Squandering time happens no matter where your kid goes to school, and squandered time is wasted time you can never get back.  No, schooling choices are not the issue.  Us being faithful with the time we do have is the issue.

If you have a problem do you know the solution?

You know, if nothing changes, nothing changes.  Randy Draper says that all time time. 

One thing I am praying about is our school options for next year.  We use a video curriculum.  All I have to do is press play (heck, I don't even do that, they do that themselves, they are very advanced you know). 

You know what?  My spirit has been unsettled about doing videos again next year.  NO!  NOT THE UNSETTLED SPIRIT LORD!

We know the videos.

They are easy and familiar.

My denim jumper I wear on the first day of school, the videos, the teachers that are circa 1995 with bobs, tapestry vests and wooden apple necklaces.  That is what we know.  It works.  But there's a problem.  As bad as I hate to admit it, there is a problem.  I don't want to have a problem, but I do. 

My problem is that I feel I am missing out on hands on, interactive one on one time with my boys during school.  I want it.  My problem is that I want them to have the freedom to curl up on the hammock with a great book during the day and take an adventure somewhere else-not be forced to finish more seatwork.  My problem is that I want us to live life together and learn along the way. 


I don't want to put one foot out of the boot and yet I know I have to because if nothing changes, nothing changes.  I do want to know the thrill of following Jesus into uncharted waters.  It is because of that reason that I ordered Educating The WholeHearted Child today.  That's the reason I'm asking God for wisdom.

The boat ride has been nice but it's time for change.  What's your problem?  You don't have to tell me but I wonder what it is.  What are you going to do about it?  Keep on keepin' on?  Hunker down into the warmth of the boat and keep coasting on the road to nowhere?  Or will you dare to lift a foot over the side of the boat?  To step out in faith toward something different?  Something totally beyond yourself...