I don't know why it _just_ occurred to me now, but as I was praying for the yet-to-be-born daughter of my high school friend, I realized that my family's experience should make me _prayerful_, not _paranoid_. My experience could easily turn me into an over-protective, controlling daddy that wouldn't give Micah the room he needs to grow correctly. Children need to test the boundaries, physical/emotional/intellectual, or I don't believe they will be challenged such that they grow correctly. Through these things we, as parents, are given opportunities to teach them God's word and wisdom.
I love my brother and sister-in-law's parenting. This past weekend, we were out camping, and we went on a hike. They let their children climb all over the rocks, and were watching, but not interfering. Watching them would "catch at my heart" a few times, and I knew that it bothered my father-in-law more than I. However, I know that they are praying for their kids, and are letting them experience the wonders of God's creation. Later that night, around the campfire, they very matter-of-factly told their youngest that it was his bedtime, and they should be getting along to their campsite. I love their handling of different situations, and pray for their "patient strength" in my own life.
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