Choosing Sides

A small boy was being bullied by a bigger fellow. Undaunted, the little fellow drew a line in the dirt with his foot and issued a challenge. “I dare you to cross that line,” he said. The bully immediately stepped over the line. “Okay,” said the small boy, “now you’re on my side.”

Jesus is telling us in today’s Gospel Lesson that if we adults are not on the children’s side, we’re on the wrong side.

When you affirm a young person you are delivering a message that says, “I’m for you unconditionally. I like who you are. I’m on your side.” And taking his or her cue from you, the young person learns to become self-affirming: “I’m okay. I’m worthwhile. I’m likable. I’m loveable. I’m capable.”

Child psychologists tell us that we need to be more aware of our attitude toward children. If we’re glad to be with them our delight will register with them. If we’re unhappy being with them,…