It’s hard to find many rites of passage for young kids these days. Those moments of learning something new and being old enough to embrace it are some of my greatest memories growing up. However, nowadays, it seems like kids just don’t get those great, life changing moments anymore. Parents seem to be sugar coating all of the great life lessons that we have cherished for generations.
Of course, most kids still get to take that first step, and learn to use the potty, but I’m talking about rites of passage that really make a kid feel like they’ve grown up and are ready to face the world. That’s why I can’t wait to tell my daughter about Hell.
I can already hear what you’re going to say. “Jim, don’t you think they will learn about Hell on their own, or maybe get the information from someone at school?” Sure, I suppose that may happen, but I don’t think kids get the full story that way. I got the full story from my father when I was young and it meant the world to me. Therefore, I want to be the one to tell her that she’s going to burn in a fiery pit and be tortured for all eternity if she doesn’t believe what I tell her to believe. What parent would want to miss an opportunity to bond with your child over something so universally true?
The fact that many parents want to miss or skip this beautiful experience is beyond me. I think parents are missing out on a wonderful opportunity to explain the hellish consequences of learning about your body, or listening to hip-hop music. I remember crying all night after the first time I had the urge to touch myself after I went to bed. Luckily, I already knew the torture awaiting me if I acted on that urge and I thank my Dad to this day for that wonderful moment of pain, suffering, and guilt. Why would I not want to give my child the same learning experiences!
Parents, please don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to tell you children about Hell, it’s reality, and how to avoid it. It’s a wonderful growing up experience that you should have together. I plan on recording the moment on video so that my daughter and I can enjoy it for years to come. I encourage you to do the same thing. Believe me, you’ll thank be for it when you go back and watch it together as a family.