My thoughts for the day are this:
EVEN ADULTS FACE PEER PRESSURE!
What, could it be? I have worked with youth for the past 15 years both in volunteer positions and as a youth minister (DCE/youth director). One of the things that we talk about is peer pressure. It is okay not to drink. It is okay not to get high. If you friends say jump off a bridge, would you do it? Of course not, right?
Well this afternoon, after pondering what another homeschool mom told me (she has gotten the cold shoulder from neighbors who once were friendly - our homeschool presence is now causing anger and bitterness!), I discovered something really odd. Yes, people may have many reasons why they want us to put our kids back in school - i.e. each child brings in loads of money, support your town, etc but really there is an underlying issue.
Remember High School... WHOO, hold the phone. This is ADULT PEER PRESSURE! Who would of thunk it? People are withdrawing from friendships, neighbors have stopped waving, some directly insult your decisions or your children's future mental state (in my case, someone basically told me my child was going to be socially retarded). Is this not peer pressure? It reminds me of the movie "Mean Girls" (not that I recommend it, but I did see part of it). Gossip and lies, lead to more gossip and lies and pretty soon, peoples lives are shattered.
Well, what did I tell my High Schoolers? Take the high road, rely on the Lord, trust in His promises and keep your eyes focused on the finish line. What do I tell myself? Our children are our responsibility... not our neighbor, our friends, or the teachers at the school.
So, just say NO to peer pressure - recognize it then have a good laugh. No amount of peer pressure should make you go against what the Lord has called you to do. Hang tight to His word and the conviction of doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord... not the school board or town.
Alright - no more soap box.. it is getting pretty flaky. :)
Happy turkey day!
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