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Great Kids? Thank Dad!  A Father's Day Tribute

6/19/2016

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​by
Janice Shaw Crouse
This article was originally published on ChristiansUnite.com
and is shared here with permission from the author.


MY HUSBAND AND I are often amused when someone praises us for being good parents. They see that our two adult children and their families are strong Christian believers and are well-adjusted and accomplished, and it is clear that they are trying to figure out how in the world that happened. Obviously, they are surprised that we ended up being good parents and clueless that their shock is more than a little patronizing. Oh, well. Whatever!

Two psychologist friends we visited when our children were pre-teens expressed amazement that our daughter and son were "well-behaved and good-mannered" and that we had "such a good relationship with them." Then they added, "And, you aren't even psychologists!"

At this Father's Day, I want to highlight the factors that make my husband such a wonderful father and enable him to have such extraordinary influence in the lives of his children and grandchildren.

Let me stress at the outset that Gil is not a plaster saint, nor is he perfect. Early on, in fact, some people wondered about his potential as a father. Long before our own children were born, my husband's sister, on seeing her brother's disinterest in children, informed him, "Gilbert, you will HAVE to love your own kids!" Since he never "suffers fools gladly" and has little patience with incompetence or hypocrisy, my mother expected him to be short-tempered and too stern with our children; she frequently expresses amazement at what a wonderful dad and grandfather Gil turned out to be.

When our children were toddlers, we taught a high-school Sunday School class and were counselors for the teenage youth group at our church. One of our first classes entailed discussing the "abundant life" that Christ offers to Christians. We began by asking them to describe an abundant life. One after another, the teens talked about material things. It became clear that few of them had any understanding of the Christian life. That experience taught us that, as parents, we had to be intentional about teaching our children a biblical worldview and instilling in them the principles that would enable them to become strong believers.

Since seven is the perfect number, I want to highlight seven things that Gil did right. He continues to do those things right! New fathers and potential fathers would do well to follow his example.

First, my husband, the father of our children, is a Godly man of character and integrity. He leads a life of transparency that continues to be a steadfast example for our children. The Book of Kings in the Bible has more than a dozen examples of evil kings in Israel -- men who did evil things "like their fathers before them." Unlike those kings, our children have always had a "Godly inheritance" in their father. He doesn't "provoke them to wrath" and he leads them "in the paths of righteousness" through his insightful advice and concern for their spiritual well-being.

Second, their father loves me, his wife, unconditionally. One of the most important things a father can do for his children is to love and respect his wife, their mother, and to model husbandly dedication and responsibility. Again, our marriage has confounded even some who have known us since before our marriage. One very close relative several years ago confessed that she didn't think our marriage would last "because we argued all the time." That relative confused intense discussions of issues and ideas with "arguing."


My husband gives me the respect of enjoying talking with me. We talk intensely about anything and everything; he respects my opinion even when we vehemently disagree or hold diametrically opposite ideas. He doesn't back down, but he doesn't browbeat me into silence or into pseudo-agreement, either. Our children grew up hearing us talk about everything, though Gil is analytical and I'm intuitive; he is detail-oriented and I'm big picture; he is methodical and I'm creative, etc. But we have similar tastes, viewpoints and outlooks. We have the same goals in life and the same worldview about life. Our children have seen us work together as a team, respecting each other's gifts and training.

Third, my children's father, my husband, gives them unconditional love, too. He enjoys being with them and has made them a priority throughout their whole lives. Our kids know that God "delights" in them because their earthly father delights in them. Gil was Gil Jr.'s coach in Little League baseball and basketball; he spent hours spotting and encouraging Charmaine as she mastered the back handspring for her team's cheerleading competitions. When our children faced difficulty or unfairness, he gave sympathy freely, but he taught them not to wallow in self-pity, instead to govern their emotions and move on to whatever open door God had for them next. Most importantly, he taught them that God was in control and that He loved them and wanted the best for them, too.

Fourth, he is totally reliable and absolutely trustworthy. When he says he will do something, he does it. His promises are true. He is a hands-on, involved and available dad. It is a wonderful gift when fathers can be trusted and when they give the gift of themselves to their children. The Book of James describes "good and perfect gifts" as coming from the Father. James refers to the Father as one who "does not change like shifting shadows." Earlier books of the New Testament refer to the Holy Spirit as the "promise of the Father." My children are incredibly blessed by having a dad who is a "rock" for them.

Fifth, he corrects them firmly, with consistency. The Bible constantly refers to God as "Father." My husband made it easy for our children to believe in God, their Heavenly Father, because their earthly father was consistent and approachable, firm and reasonable. Like the Heavenly Father, their earthly father instructs them with an "easy yoke" and "light burden." I remember once when Gil Jr. was in high school and his room was a disaster. I told him in no uncertain terms that he was to get in there and have everything straight in one hour. Gil Sr., who was working on something else at the time, called me over and told me that I should work alongside Gil Jr.; otherwise he would be overwhelmed by such a monumental challenge. I followed his suggestion and that sent an important message to our son that we were willing to work with him. At the same time, it provided an opportunity to teach him how to handle a big job by tackling specific aspects of the task one at a time.

Sixth, my husband has abundant wisdom, discernment and good judgment. The Scriptures warn parents against "provoking their children to wrath" (Ephesians 6:4). Fathers who make foolish statements, decisions and actions are not good examples for their children. One pastor estimates that only half of the children of Christian dads also become Christians; that's how important a father's influence is. That estimate points out, though, that other factors are equally important.

I remember hearing Dr. Howard Hendricks, a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, describe his father's influence. He said that his dad was not a Christian, but he was a man of integrity and wisdom. Dr. Hendricks shocked me by saying, "If I had to choose between a Christian dad who wasn't a man of integrity and a non-Christian father who was, I'd choose the non-Christian anytime." After seeing the results of the inconsistency, bad judgment and emotional distance of some Christian fathers, I can better understand Hendricks' statement.

Seventh, my husband was intentional in teaching our children about God. The biblical Book of Deuteronomy stresses the importance of teaching "when you sit at home," "when you walk along the road," as well as "when you lie down and when you get up." Further, we are told to tie God's principles to our hands and bind them to our foreheads. We are instructed to "write them on the doorframes of our houses" and "post them on the gates" into our yards. In other words, we are to utilize every means at our disposal to teach our children about God's Word and His instruction about the Christian life. My husband was exceptional at finding opportunities to teach our children from real-life experiences; he was constantly communicating with them about his own struggles and his own experiences in walking with Christ. He invested himself wholeheartedly in their spiritual development.

Perhaps the defining moment of his fathering came when both our children were in college. My husband lost his job. Some of our friends advised us not to tell the kids. Gil decided that they would immediately sense that something was wrong, and it would be better for them to know exactly what the problem was rather than for them to imagine all the horrible other possibilities that "might" be wrong. We told them, and it was obvious that they felt trusted and affirmed as full-fledged family members. They learned that there are times when parents need support, too. We went through that experience together as a family, drawing closer to each other and going through that bad time just as we shared all the wonderful times -- together, open and transparent with each other.

They say that the most important decision anyone makes, next to choosing Christ, is their choice of a mate. I agree totally with that statement. I've been extraordinarily blessed with the man I fell in love with and married -- among the best surprises is that he is such a great dad! But, of course, the qualities that make him such a good father are the same ones that make me love him and make him such a great husband, too.




Dr. Janice Crouse is an author, columnist and commentator. She serves on several think tank boards and task forces. She is married to Dr. Gilbert L. Crouse, Sr., an economist at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Their son, Dr. Gilbert L. Crouse, Jr., is married to Naomi; they are the parents of Lewis and Mark. Their daughter, Dr. Charmaine Crouse Yoest, is married to Jack; they are the parents of Hannah, John, Helena, Sarah, and James.





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Celebrating Flag Day

6/14/2016

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​"When we honor our flag we honor what we stand for as a Nation --
freedom, equality, justice, and hope."  
~Ronald Reagan



Americans celebrate Flag Day on June 14th to commemorate the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777.  

Here are some good ways to teach our children the history and meaning of the flag and to help them appreciate our precious heritage.  

Choose a few ideas below for your family to enjoy. Invite friends to join you if you'd like, and create happy, meaningful memories together.


*  Display the flag.  Talk about what it represents, what it means to you, and any family flag
   traditions you may want to create.

*  Say the Pledge of Allegiance and discuss what it means. (Try saying it in sign language.)  

*  Learn about the history of the flag.

*  Learn the history of Flag Day.

*  Read the 2016 Presidential Proclamation for Flag Day and National Flag Week

*  Learn flag etiquette, how to fold the flag, and why it's significant. 

*  Read books with your family that help you "appreciate our flag and the sacrifices it has
   motivated." This inspiring article has some helpful suggestions for adults and older children.

*  Learn about and sing our national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner."

*  Sing or listen to patriotic songs. Great songs about our flag include:
    -  
The Star Spangled Banner.
    -  You’re a Grand Old Flag   
    -  There are Many Flags
    -  When the Flag Goes By
    -  Take Your Hat Off When the Flag Goes By
​
*  Make patriotic crafts.  Here are more ideas.  You could use them as part of a family parade with 
   young children, or to decorate for the 4th of July.

*  Serve patriotic treats (or keep it simple with watermelon or root beer floats) and have fun.


​


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Remembering D-Day

6/6/2016

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Today is the 72nd anniversary of D-Day, the day when Allied Forces invaded Normandy, on June 6, 1944.  

The price was staggering.  More men died on that single day than in all of the Iraq War.  But with incredible courage the Allied Forces persisted, and won an amazing victory.  The victory at Normandy prepared the way for the liberation of Europe from Nazi control, and led to the end of World War II.  

We gratefully remember them and their sacrifice.  May we also be true as we face whatever sacrifices are required in our day to defend the great legacy of liberty we have received!







"Of all the days in the 20th century, none were more consequential than June 6, 1944...
other nominees flatten when one asks, 'What if D-Day had Failed?'"  ~Douglas Brinkley


Learn More
  • The 70th Anniversary of D-Day: A Time to Honor Those Who Served
  • What Does D-Day Mean to Us Now?
  • D-Day 70th Anniversary Special Edition
  • Army Commemoration of D-Day
  • History.com D-Day Resources
  • D-Day Landings Scenes in 1944 and Now
  • American Minute about D-Day
  • President Reagan Remembers D-Day

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Remembering a Great President

6/5/2016

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President Ronald Reagan's faith in God, his belief in the goodness of the American people, and his confidence in the future changed the course of history.

We face many challenges today, but they are not new.  Reagan experienced similar challenges and overcame them with faith, determination, optimism, and hard work.

May we honor President Reagan and the great legacy of liberty he left us by working to restore the conservative principles he championed!

Here are some favorite stories and videos about Reagan.  They are full of valuable lessons from the life of one of America’s greatest leaders.  


Ronald Reagan’s Childhood

Happy Birthday Ronald Reagan!
Over 100 years ago today, an ordinary baby was born (if any baby can be called ordinary).   His parents named him Ronald Wilson Reagan.  He was born in a simple home, to an obscure mother and an alcoholic father.  

Learning About Ronald Reagan's Childhood (4:26) 
President Reagan grew up with all the challenges that can come with having an alcoholic father -- financial hardship, emotional turmoil, unpredictable home life, and moving from town to town.  Yet he became one of America’s most revered leaders.  

 
Reagan’s Family 

Insights Into a Legendary Love  (8:32)
This heart-warming interview is full of insights into one of the great romances of modern America. Nancy's words of wisdom are valuable for any couple trying to build a happy and lasting marriage. 

Michael Reagan Remembers His Father
In this beautiful eulogy, Michael Reagan tells us what it's like to be the son of Ronald Reagan.

President Reagan Teaches His Daughter
Patti Reagan shares how her Dad took time to kindly and patiently teach her about death.  In so doing he also shared his great faith in God and his love for life. 

Ron Reagan Remembers His Father
It appears that President Reagan governed his family in much the same way he governed America.  What a great example for all of us! 


Faith and Prayer

Ronald Reagan - Man of Faith  (4:48)
This video was made to show President Ronald Reagan's sincere faith and that,  even while he held the highest office in the land, he stayed true to his deeply held beliefs. 

The Importance of Religion in America  (15:17)
"Of all the dispositions and habits, which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports. 

Ronald Reagan on America's Heritage of Faith  (25:00)
President Reagan’s remarks reflect his deep faith, his belief in family values, his extensive knowledge of American history and heritage, and his hope for America’s future.

President Reagan Talks About Prayer  (2:07)
Prayer guides us in our daily life and strengthens us in times of trial.


Freedom

We the People...  (1:38)
In less that 2 minutes, President Reagan sums up the basis of our liberty. Ours was the first revolution in the history of mankind that truly reversed the course of government, and with three little words: 'We the People.'

Renewing America  (3:32)
"If we look to the answer as to why for so many years we achieved so much, prospered as no other people on Earth, it was because here in this land we unleashed the energy and individual genius of man to a greater extent than has ever been done before."  This is 31/2 inspiring minutes from  President Reagan’s first inaugural address.

Liberty vs. Tyranny  (2:18)
"Freedom has never been so fragile, so close to slipping from our grasp as it is at this moment....I think it’s time we ask ourselves if we still know the freedoms that were intended for us by the Founding Fathers." 

Ronald Reagan on Socialized Medicine  (5:04)
President Reagan's advice on socialized medicine is perhaps even more relevant today than when he gave it.  We need to stop government encroachment on our liberty! 

President Reagan Remembers D-Day  (13:22)
We're here to mark that day in history when the Allied armies joined in battle to reclaim this continent to liberty. For 4 long years, much of Europe had been under a terrible shadow. Here in Normandy the rescue began.

The Speech at the Berlin Wall Changed the Course of History (3:45, 4:53)
We need to tell our children the story of this speech and to teach them that sometimes it takes courage to stand alone.  Sometimes it's hard to do the right thing.  But nothing is more important.  

A Time for Choosing  (3:44, 29:33)
Ronald Reagan warns Americans that we are at the crossroads between two radically different visions of America and encourages us to defend our God-given rights and freedoms.


Tributes to President Reagan

Celebrating President Ronald Reagan's Legacy  (2:04)
We face many challenges as a nation today, but as we celebrate the life of Ronald Reagan, it is important to note that these are not new challenges. Reagan faced similar problems, but believed that it could be "morning in America."

Ronald Reagan, Great Person and Communicator  (several short videos)
We live in a time of divisiveness and strife.  Sometimes the differences of opinion in America appear too big to bridge.  Reagan lived in such a time.  His ideas were met with derision and scorn, yet, in just a few years,  people were praising him and calling him “the great communicator.” 

Tribute to Ronald Reagan  (9:55)
"Tribute to Ronald Reagan," was produced for the Ronald Reagan Award Gala in 2006.

RNC Tribute to President Reagan  (3:42) 
President Reagan appealed to our hopes, not our fears, and our confidence rather than our doubts.  


Holidays and Days of Remembrance

What July Fourth Means to Me
By: Ronald Reagan     From: Parade Magazine

Ronald Reagan Talks about Thanksgiving  (1:24)
Thank God for the bounty and goodness of our nation. And as a measure of our gratitude, let us rededicate ourselves to the preservation of this, the land of the free, and the home of the brave. 

President Reagan's Inspiring Christmas Message  (3:27)
In a world of Christmas culture wars and political correctness, President Reagan's national Christmas address is absolutely refreshing!  What a blessing his example continues to be! 

President Reagan's Remarks at a Memorial Service Following the Challenger Disaster
Reagan delivered these remarks at a memorial service for the Challenger  astronauts. 
​


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The American Form of Government

6/3/2016

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Moms, this video is a great lesson to share and discuss with our kids.  
The text here is the transcript from the video.  

(If you can't see it all, click the tiny "Read More" link at the bottom of the page.)




​
​As Benjamin Franklin left the Constitutional Convention, a woman asked him, "Sir, what have you given us?"

His immediate response was, "A republic ma'am, if you can keep it.."

Yet many Americans today have come to believe America’s governmental system is a democracy and not a republic. 

The difference between these two is essential in understanding the American system.






Before we discuss political systems however, it is helpful to address the confusion about the political spectrum. Many people believe that the political spectrum places groups such as communists on the far left, fascists or dictators on the far right, and political moderates or centrists in the middle.

However, a more accurate political spectrum will show government having zero power on the far right to having 100% power on the far left.  At the extreme right, there is no government. The extreme left features total government under such labels as communism, socialism, nazism, fascism, princes, potentates, dictators, kings, any form of total government.

Those who claim that nazis and fascist are right wing never define their terms. This amounts to spreading confusion. The type of government limited to its proper role of protecting the rights of the people is toward the middle of the spectrum. That’s where the Constitution of the United States is. Those who advocate such a form of government are constitutional moderates.

So, let’s analyze the basic forms of government. They are, monarchy or dictatorship ruled by one, oligarchy ruled by a few, democracy ruled by the majority, republic ruled by law, and anarchy which is ruled by no one. A discussion of these five will narrow down the types of government.

Looking first at monarchy or dictatorship. This form of government doesn’t really exist. In the practical sense, it’s always a group that puts one of its members up front. A king has his council of nobles or earls and every dictator has his bureaucrats or commissars, the men behind the scenes. This isn’t rule by one even though one person may be the visible leader. It’s rule by a group. So, let’s eliminate monarchy dictatorship because it never truly exists.

Oligarchy, which is rule by a group, is the most common form of government in all history and it is the most common form of government today. A powerful few rule most of the nations of the world and therefore oligarchy remains.

At the other end, we find anarchy, which means without government. Some people have looked over history and found that governments committed many of its worse crimes. Therefore, they decided that having no government might be a good idea but this is a mistake because as the ancient Greeks stated, without law there can be no freedom. 

America’s Founding Fathers agreed and held that some amount of government is a necessary force in any civilized orderly society. In a state of anarchy, however everyone has to guard life, liberty, and property and the lives of family members. Movement is severely restricted and arming everyone is necessary to protect ones property at all times. 

Civilized people have always hired someone to do the guarding, a sheriff, a police force, or some branch of government. Once law enforcement was in place, the people were freer. They could leave their property, work in the fields, and so on. In short, the proper amount of government makes everyone freer.


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To Be American

6/1/2016

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Do you ever pause for a moment to reflect on the awesome and abundant blessings we enjoy in the United States of America? The liberty, peace, and prosperity that surround us are but a dream in many parts of the world.

This heritage has been purchased with the blood, sweat, and sacrifice of millions who have gone before. May we do our part to preserve the great legacy of liberty we have been given! 

"To Be American" is a beautiful and inspiring song about our noble heritage. Hope you enjoy it!!

​



To Be American

Our Fathers fought the fight that gave us liberty,
Our Mothers sewed the flags that wave for you and me.
Their sons and daughters pay a price to keep us free,
A price that all must pay to save this country.

America, America
a land of liberty, a land of opportunity.
America, America
a land where freedom rings,
a land where children sing, of blessings that it brings,
to be American.

Those who've gone before us worked to make this country grand,
built the bridges, paved the roads, and farmed the land.
We the People need to give more than we take,
it takes toil and work to make a country great.

America, America
a land of liberty, a land of opportunity.
America, America 
a land where freedom rings,
a land where children sing, of blessings that it brings,
to be American.

America, America
the greatest land on earth.
America, America
where some come to work, with nothing to lose
and others to worship, how they choose.

Our Founding Fathers built a nation under God,
that we might worship Him and spread His word abroad.
The Lord has promised we shall prosper in this land,
if we will tread His ways, and follow His commands.

America, America
a land of liberty, a land of opportunity.
America, America 
a land where freedom rings, a land where children sing, 
of blessings that it brings,
to be American.

TO BE AMERICAN!

​
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