Our guest blogger today was a student of mines some years ago and exceptional one she was. Today as our guest blogger she has words of encouragement for both the student and the parent. I so appreciate her sharing her heart in a transparent manner. Additionally, I am so very proud to *see* and *read* Hannah’s maturity both spiritually and as an adult.
Enjoy!
Angela P.
“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; but remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.” – Epicurus
It is easy to wish away your homeschool years. You are ready for it to be over; you don’t feel like doing school! I know. I have been there. Even on days when schoolwork is the last thing you want to do, I encourage you to decide to be happy about it. I see so many homeschoolers dragging their feet about their schoolwork. Getting children to complete their work is like pulling eyeteeth for many parents.
I am now twenty years old. This is my third year without the “burden” of schoolwork, and believe it or not, I miss it sometimes. Don’t misunderstand me; it feels great to have finished high school, but I wish I had appreciated the homeschooling season of my life more than I did. I’m not sure where the time went!
Parents who choose to homeschool their children give up much of their time, resources, and energy to teach us at home. I should include tears on that list (we all know this is true)! Show yours how much you appreciate what they have done, are doing, and will continue to do for you. In reflection, I have seen how much children’s attitudes affect their parents, especially their mothers, who typically invest the most time in their schooling. This realization caused me to evaluate my attitude and I realized that completing schoolwork was not an option, and by having a good attitude I could make my life and my families lives much more enjoyable by not only accepting, but embracing my role of a student. When we have a positive mindset about things our parents ask of us, it makes their job so much easier. This is the least we should do for the amount of sacrifices they have made for us. We are one of the greatest responsibilities God has given them, and when we honor our parents, we honor God.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
In conclusion, I would encourage you not to rush your life. We are all where we are for a reason. Make the most of your time at home. We have been blessed with parents who care enough about our futures and souls, that they are willing to give of themselves for our benefit. I realize that this is a place you have to come to in your own mind and heart, and it’s not easy, but time is fleeting, and we never get these days back.
Hannah Brannon
Homeschool Graduate 2012
