In A Perfect World. . .Free the Leash Kids!

In a perfect world; children would not be kept on leashes.  Let me explain.  In one of my American Lit II classes, my students managed to steer the class discussion onto a bunny trail about how their parents had used a "leash" to keep up with them when they were out in public as we were discussing the character of Randolph in Henry James; Daisy Miller.  I will hasten to add that none of them appeared traumatized by this; they actually found it amusing.  This brings me to my point; parents do need to keep up with their children in public.  Unfortunately, too many parents are distracted by some type of media, or they're just completely self-absorbed.  How often have you been to a restuarant and seen children running around the table as their parents are absorbed in conversation or with a cell phone.  The same is true in department stores; how often do you see children running through the aisles or playing in clothes racks as their parents shop?  Parenting is difficult and it requires extreme diligence.  It takes time to teach children to sit at the table instead of allowing them to run around.  While I understand this may not be an easy task, perhaps the adults at the table could engage the children in conversation (I understand this might detract from gossip, but so be it).  In this way, children could not only learn table manners but also learn the art of conversation.  But again, this might take away from "adult" conversations.  Unfortunately, in today's society, we've become very hedonistic and believe that the only thing of importance is what makes us happy and comfortable.  Too many parents have been led to believe that "No" is word their children should never hear.  Consequently, children grow up with the idea that they should get everything they want when they want it.  Ok, enough of my tirade. Parents need to put aside distractions when they're out with their children.  Take the leash off the toddlers and hold their hand; develop those all-important bonds. The point is this, scripture tell us to "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it" (Proverbs--paraphrase).  As a grandparent, I understand how quickly children grow up.  Parents, take the time to love and discipline your children; they are a precious gift from God.  Blessings!

In a Perfect World. . . Language

In a perfect world, everyone would have an appreciation for language and understand the power of words.  Many Native Americans believe that words have the power to both create and destroy, so words are chosen carefully in order to maintain hozo. The Bible addresses the power of words in the book of James: "Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.  See how great a forest a little fire kindles!" (3:5). In an off-hand sort of way, this brings me to my point, language can bind us together or drive us apart.  Political correctness is robbing our language of it's richness.  Don't misunderstand me; I'm not advocating insensitivity to others, nor do I believe we should say everything that pops into our minds, but political correctness is pushing us into a sterility of language--no colloquisms allowed!  This point was raised in my Introduction to Literary Theory class today as we were discussing "Young Goodman Brown" and the descriptor of "crotchty old man" was applied to his character.  Students pointed out, correctly, that the phrase might be offensive to some.  They are certainly correct in that conclusion.  However, on the other hand, we must be careful to guard the rich linguistic history of our language.  Wisdom should be applied in all situations, but not all situations should be construed to be insentive.  James said "For we all stumble in many things.  If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body" (3:2).  My conclusion. . . in a perfect world, we'd be able to embrace the richness of our language without fearing offending those around us.  God gave us language; we must learn to harness it's power.  Blessings!

In A Perfect World. . .The Beginning

In a perfect world--no one would be afraid to write and express an opinion, and we would all be able to do well.  I'll admit that this is my very first blog posting.  It's my goal to post at least once a week.  I actually think it's exciting to have a venue to post my opinions on things.  With that in mind, please keep in mind that anything I post is just that--an opinion.  I don't expect everyone to agree with everything I say.  I hope that this space will allow me to express an opinion about a variety of topic.  Given that I have a Ph.D. and I'm an English professor, I doubt that I'll run out of things to say.  Blessings!