Maturity (self-control, responsibility, wisdom)

• We learn these character traits through our daily lives. In the Love of Learning phase we review our “Life Skills” through feed back on the LEARN weekly from mom (and others) on areas that need work. We discuss our relationships and conflicts. Attention must be made to doing well in our duties at home. Mom and Dad, of course, are the example – for both strength and weakness. This is the bible study on the first page of my personal commonplace book:

7     And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8     For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9     And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Cor 12:7-9

Maturity is not a goal of perfection or to lead a godly life through our own strength, but rather a dependence on God to help us in our daily lives through our weaknesses. With God’s help we can learn to accept our duties in life. This is an important lesson to learn and is the foundation for maturity.

• Our Scholar phase “Life Skills” course, which includes Between the Leaving and the Cleaving, (the book we hope to write someday about relationships) teaches this in a formal manner through research, writing and discussions. There are also certain Task Analysis Sheets to complete on specific life skills.

Management of my life (home, health, finances, education)

• Being able to manage our home, health, finances and continued education is the outcome of Maturity. The children must see these areas being managed in our own home. It's really hard to be an example, but we can reach these goals through mutual support and continual renewing of our efforts. Motivation is important to our ability to persevere. Motivational tapes, goal setting and rewards all help toward this goal. Seeking support groups helps to. Work on yourself and watch others emulate you. You don't have to be perfect (you can't be!) but making the effort even sporadically is helpful and fully human.

Monetary gains (good management allows for gains)

This is the reward for our efforts of good management. We understand that God is the giver of all gifts, but we cannot stop our efforts. He gives the increase. Monetary gains are important for the safety and welfare of our family and our children’s future families.

Teaching entrepreneurial skills and specialized knowledge are key to success at work at home ventures, or any other type of business as well. The kids need to practice Quick Books to learn accounting (for management). Sales is vital for any business so salesmanship along with fair trade is very important. Learning to network with other professionals and develop joint ventures will build stronger businesses. www.RheasProtegeGroup.com is the best place we have found to learn business skills and to have that important mastermind group.

While all of this maturity and management is hard for most people including parents, the real key is keeping relationships healthy so we can work at these things together and be supportive. No one is perfect so don't get in a tizzy because you fall so short of your goals. When we have love and forgiveness in the family we just pick up and move on.