Our homes must not become museums of beautiful collections, and things that no one can touch. I have known of people who never used the living room. It was only for company. Or of people who had so many collectibles that they were uncomfortable having families over because something might get broken.
I have never been one to 'baby proof' my house. Shocking, isn't it? I taught my children from a young age to just not touch certain things. That didn't mean I left an heirloom item on the coffee table, though either. My children were taught to ask before they touched something. It's normal for them to be curious about certain things and if they wanted to see it or hold it, I took the time to sit with them and show them. We would talk about it and they could 'explore' with out just grabbing it. In this way, it was normal for them to go to other peoples homes with us and to not touch their things either.
We do like to have things about us that we love. We have pretty things. But our house is a 'hands on house'. A place where the people who live here enjoy and a place that the friends and family who come know they are welcome. All of them, busy hands toddlers and all.
God has given us our homes to shelter us; to give us a place of refuge from the storm - sometimes literally! They are given to us to share with others as a way to bless them, and ourselves. If our 'treasures' mean more to us than relationships, than something is wrong.
Tim and I chose many years ago that we would always choose "People over things." This is a motto in our family life. Sometimes it is inconvenient, but it is always right.
The Lord was involved with people during His entire ministry. He cared about them, ate with them, had friendships. He wept with them. We are to follow His example.
Living in a museum might suit some folk, but for me I would rather enjoy a bright eyed three year old's joy over drinking tea from a real teacup, enjoy the older kids playing games at the table, piling on the chairs and couches to watch a movie all together.
My house may not be a museum, but it fits us just right!
Romans 12:13 - Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
1 Peter 1:4 - Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.
1 Timothy 5:10 - well reported for good works: if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has relieved the afflicted, if she has diligently followed every good work.
8 comments:
People over things is the motto at our house too and I agree with your sentiments.
This is a really good reminder of what is *truly* important. :o)
Praying for you this weekend! Hope you don'r lose anything with the wind gusts.! Ruth xo
So very well said! Yes and YES!! Now that my kids are grown the girls babysit at our home a lot. They are learning how to remove something from hands grasp if it's imperative but usually just to direct the little people in how to touch certain things or what not to touch. Like you, there's not much that falls in that category in our home. I love seeing them develop patience and patterns for instruction and guidance.
And thank you for the Karen tip. I'm sure you are right. Karen's words have become synonymous with Charlotte's in my mind. Correction made. :)
Blessings, Debbie
Deanna - My house IS a museum - in that it is decorated with interesting things that open the way of conversation. I like to create atmosphere - sanctuary - with my decor. I agree with you about teaching small children not to touch. I always had "pretties" set out and my children - like yours - were taught the "no touch" boundaries - which translated into respect for property and good stewardship. Valuable lessons to be sure!
Hope you guys are secure for the storm! Be safe! Hope to be back in Blogworld by mid week - depending upon how long we would be without power.
Joy!
Kathy
Praying for you and your family as you face the "storm"! I hope no trees are damaged and you are all safe throughout this time! Thanks also for you nice note! I'm working on being more consistent with my blog, but it's still only about once a week or so. You are so faithful with yours -- it inspires me to do better :-) Take care and I hope to see you here on your blog after the storm passes! Blessings to you and yours!
Hunkering down in our home for this storm gives me opportunity to concentrate on some projects here. I happen to have a lot of glass here but it is definitely not a museum feel...not with dogs and kids galore. Now to figure out where to go with all of it....and that which is to come! So much coming and going over the next few months!!
I'm praying for your family - scattered and gathered....especially for your dad.
I enjoyed reading this "museum" post. I so heartily agree. Especially with the training children part of it!
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