It's funny how some sermons really resonate -- even if the message is really simple. One that has stuck with me for several years was about being a "mean" parent.
How many of us have heard more than a few times from our kids -- "You're so mean!"
Well, a preacher taught me the proper reply to such outbursts -- "You think I'm mean? Gooood!"
Because if it's mean to say no to my children in order to protect them, or if it's generally in their best interest, I'm going to say no. I don't care about being popular with them, I don't care how much of a fuss they make.
Because more than sometimes "no" is the best call.
"But everybody else agrees with me."
"No."
"All of my friends get to do it."
"No."
"Come on, I never get to do anything."
"No."
I'll throw in some levity "I know, I know. I'm the Meanest Mom in the World -- I won't let my kid go see a trashy movie/ watch another hour of tv / hang out at them mall again / what-have-you..."
They get the message. They don't like it, but they are learning it's my job.
This lesson can be used in all sorts of extrapolations, in interpersonal relationships and in greater context.
It's a lesson that a certain sector of the electorate and elected officials in this nation need to learn.
Meanest minority in Congress? Gooood!
