I make my daughter’s lunch every day, even though she is a junior in high school. One of my goals in parenting has been to encourage autonomy in my kids, and yet nearly every morning I’m standing at the counter in my pajamas, chopping red peppers. Sometimes I wonder if I should keep doing this, and my parental fears of children who are unable to fend for themselves rear their ugly heads. Sometimes I even drive her to school, despite the fact that the high school is only three blocks away and the parking lot is a nightmare in the mornings. Cold, snowy mornings when you are carrying a heavy backpack and two musical instruments can be made a little brighter with a ride. I have learned that these times are not about being unable to do something, just an instance of learning to receive help and kindness. And although I want my kids to be independent and capable, I also want them to be kind and helpful as well.
Inspiration in a “Vocation”-al Setting
By Karen Austin
Earlier this week, I spent three days at a retreat for educators where forty-plus attendees discussed ethics, mission, and the vocation. While I do enjoy congregating with my fellow saints each Sunday, I found it invigorating to meet with a variety of people in an interpath effort. (Interpath is more inclusive than interfaith because it …