Will You Tie This for Me?

In these days of Velcro shoe fasteners and other latest things, are we losing the fine art of tying a shoe and other simple skills? We no longer darn socks, we just buy new ones. We forget how to add we just use a calculator. Who needs to learn how to actually “tell time” if you have a digital readout?

I remember the delight my mother expressed when she taught me how to tie my apron behind my back at the age of five. Anybody besides me still wear an apron? I would not have thought anything of this newly acquired skill except for the fact that with obvious pride, my mom had me demonstrate my new ability over and over to her friends.

Have you taken special notice of your child recently? What simple, special skill can you teach them that can give them a special sense of accomplishment that family and friends can “ooh and aahh” over? This summer I was astounded to observe my seven and eight year old grandchildren doing flip turns at swimming, something I have never accomplished at my age and doubtfully ever will.

Sure, their technological skills will soon be light years beyond our own and their capacity to learn boggles the mind, but we, their parents and grandparents have some intriguing skills that we can pull out of our old-time hats and teach them.

Think of a simple, fun thing that you can teach your children or grandchildren today and then delight in their ability, in the wonderful way that the Lord has made them and how He has entrusted them to your care.

Need some ideas?

I recall a 2nd grade teacher who taught every one of her students how to whistle, believing that it may someday save someone’s life.

It’s summer, a great time to teach your daughter how to French braid her hair!

Learning how to sew on a button or fix a hem will have a life-long return!

Consider actually learning how to darn, crochet or knit.

How about tying flies for fly-fishing (teens)?

Take apart a broken appliance or motor and fix it with Mom or Dad’s help?

Ready, set, connection time! Think simple, basic, something you can teach/learn in less than a day, then delight in them.

Proverbs 3:1-2
My son [daughter], do not forget my teaching,
But let your heart keep my commandments;
For length of days and years of life
And peace they will add to you.