My child, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. -Proverbs 6:20
Dear members and friends,
When I found out I was becoming a father, I read Proverbs intently. This ancient book is full of wisdom, especially about parenting. Indeed, if you grew up with parents who taught you about life, relationships, and the world with love and care, you are blessed. My beginning was not so blessed since both my parents were out of my life by the time I was six years old. I deeply acknowledge the value and importance of having “father’s commandment” and “mother’s teaching” because my early life without them was full confusion and uncertainty.
Growing up, I longed for mother’s teaching, more so than father’s commandment, but my idea of how a wise mother would teach her child was part fantasy and part wishful thinking. The person who showed me how it could happen in real life was my wife. One thing that always amazes me is how deeply she feels the pain and trouble of her children in her own heart! Often, it seems she is more troubled by our children’s problems than they, despite the fact that they are the ones actually struggling with them. And many times it was clear that she would not stop searching for a solution until the problem was resolved. As I was living with and watching her daily, I fully realized that this is what is meant by the love of mother for her children, and a mother’s teaching!
I send my praises to all mothers who are overcoming their own challenges and difficulties to ensure a good life for their children. Also, I would like to invite you all in reflecting on the importance of our mothers, who are indeed the origin of us all! Happy Mother’s Day!
Blessings, Rev. Junchol Lee