Superintendent’s Blog – July 4, 2018

Dr. Don Mayes

I can only imagine what the signers of the declaration of independence were thinking during the days leading up to the 4^th.  The events of these days would greatly affect their families, their fortunes, and their health.  It is an interesting study to see what happened to each of the signers.  The Declaration of Independence marked the severing the colonies’ ties to the British Crown.  It was no small thing to decide to leave the protection, the familiarity, and the stability of the British Crown.  They had to decide whether to stay in a comfortable, but less than ideal situation, or to risk all and declare themselves a new and independent nation.  A decision that could lead to personal and colonial ruin or the creation of a new nation built on the promise of freedom and a government of the people, by the people and for the people.

On a personal level, as parents are all trying to raise our children to achieve a type of independence.  Do we keep them sheltered, safe, and under our constant watch, or do we let them branch out and make some mistakes on their own?  Do we come to their aid in every disagreement and uncomfortable situation they find themselves in, or do we let them sort through some of the uncomfortable and even hurtful situations in life?  Obviously, we protect our children in varying degrees depending on their age and maturity, but the end goal is a strong, healthy, independent adult.

My goal here at Parkview is to accomplish our Portrait of a Graduate and our Mission Statement in the lives of each of our students.  Part of our mission statement refers to Luke 2:52 where Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man.  He began his earthly life in the close care of his parents and then he separated from them over time and achieved his independence.  This caused some stress with his parents when he separated himself as a twelve-year-old from them and went to learn in the Synagogue instead of making his journey home (Luke 2:43).

While this process is stressful at times, we are not alone as parents.  A strong bond between the home, the church, and the school can put many human resources at your disposal as your child grows.  I appreciate so much the staff at Parkview and my fellow parents who have poured into the life of my own child during his time at Parkview.  It is not always comfortable, but we are on our way to independence!

I am sure those early signers could not have imagined what American exceptionalism would truly become.  Today we benefit greatly from their sacrifice and from the sacrifice of so many that followed. Celebrate the 4^th with pride and enthusiasm this year.  That privilege was bought at a high price.  As you are with your family, reflect on the independence of your own children.  Give them appropriate space to learn and grow even if it is uncomfortable at times.  The benefits could be greater than you imagined.

As you do that, pray A LOT for them ☺.  Happy 4^th.  Be safe.  God Bless.