Socialization

-- is a term used to refer to the process of inheriting norms, customs, and idealogies. It may provide the individual with the skills and habits necessary for participating within their own society.

I read an article titled "A Whole New Look at Socialization" by Marilyn Molewyk. It really put pretty words in a wonderful order that coincide with our values on the subject. I'm so simple minded and really- she spoke of every one of our thoughts and ideals.

She mentioned at the end of the article her future goals for socialization are focused on raising her children to be Godly men and women. She goes on to describe what that entails. And I loved every word of it! So I adopted it and shaped it to family and wanted to share it here.

We want to raise our children to be Godly men and women who:
~Are comfortable being who they are, no matter who they're with.
~Understand the misconceptions behind social hierarchies and accompanying social rules.
~Function with Godly integrity within a society of social game players.

We want them to comprehend and embrace:
~Their unique, God-given personalities and talents.
~Their identity and value lie in their relationship with God.
~That God loves them for who they are, not for what they do.
~That we're all equal at the foot of the cross, regardless of race, gender, beauty, possessions, achievements, etc.
~That God's opinion, and obedience to His opinion, is more important than other peoples' opinions.

We want them to demonstrate the Godly character traits of a good friend:
~Loyalty
~Compassion
~Self-awareness: recognizing, identifying, and owning one's emotions/motivations vs. carelessly inflicting them on others.
~Integrity: being the same person in all situations and with all people.
Authenticity: able to get real with others, admit weakness, and ask for help, not hide behind a mask.
~Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
~Honesty: includes not manipulation or using passive-aggressive behavior to get something one wants.
~Ability to handle envy in a Godly way.
~Courage to stand up for, protect, and defend victims of injustice.

Should have effective and empathetic communication and conflict resolution skills, including the ability to:
~Examine and discuss motives
~Talk through misunderstandings
~ Ask for and offer forgiveness
~Speak the truth in love
~Set and enforce healthy boundaries vs. being a dominating jerk or a passive doormat.

I think if my hubby and I can impart a majority of these attributes into our fabulous four-they will have no problem cultivating and maintaining deep, meaningful relationships throughout their lives.