What are the most treasured moments in our lives? Events that have most affected us during our lifetime. Many of us would say our first car or first truck. Others would think it was their wedding day or their first home. But if you stop for one moment and really think hard, the most life-changing moment was when you first held your baby in your arms. The progression of life begins with you. When you get married you becomes us, and when children are added, us becomes a family. It is amazing how one changes when children are born into their life. Gradually we do begin to learn that being a friend is easy, but being a parent is a whole different ballgame. Your child needs a parent to help guide them through life. That is not an easy task, but nowadays it is even harder. Parents and grandparents must be on the lookout for our children’s safety. We must be their umbrella of protection, not only for the toddler, but for our teenagers, too. With just the click of a mouse, your children can be taken to websites that are way too impressionable for even an adult. Social media is like walking into a darkened room and hearing only voices giving you advice. You do not know who you are talking to or dealing with, creating a dangerous and seductive environment. This is the time for parental controls, and time limits must be set. Yes, they will argue and complain, but you are fighting for your child’s life and safety. Social bullying is a large part of teenage life now and, sadly, so is suicide. Monitor their activities on the internet. Now another aspect of life has reared its head, one that is so very damaging it makes our heads spin. It is what the young children are being taught in school regarding sexual activities and gender. But we can protect our children. Ask them about school and what is being taught and what they are reading. Do not react harshly in front of the child and remember there are two ways to change this type of schooling. Find out about your school board, and if you are not satisfied with them, vote them out. The most important part of raising your family is to teach them religious faith. Everyone needs training in a firm foundation to build their life upon – especially the young. The Bible states it best: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Remember, you are training our future. God bless and Happy 4th of July!