By all definitions of the home the one most appropriate is a charitable abode. A place where one is at ease and familiar, no one however stable will enjoy positive health and perform good work if the home side of life is at fault. More than ever before the older generation must do everything possible to impress this on the younger generation. The basis of home is built on the relationship that exists between the parents. However humble the home may be it is the little things that matter to children. The family that can share its sorrows, problems and pleasure and express them in tears of sorrow or hugs of real affection and pleasure has got something very real.
The real home means so much to children with everyone round the same table enjoying a meal together, the evening bath, bed time stories, prayers and a good night kiss. A special cupboard or box or some corner where a child can keep his toys and treasures and so often the most simple and inexpensive toys are those which give the pleasure. To fulfill its function properly the home must be the one place where a child can really express his feeling, so aiding his emotional development. The best parents are those prepared to be fought, defied, loved and hated but they are the people who can stand it. A child from this type of home usually enjoys school and looks upon it as a place of organization and discipline, whereas a child who is too disciplined or unhappy at home will be more likely to give trouble at school.
Once having established a real home its care should be the responsibility of the whole family. The building itself should be kept in good repair, the quick correction of minor faults will often prevent the need for major repairs. Gutters should be kept free from debris. Children can be taught to appreciate, enjoy and care for a garden. Inside the home, furniture however simple and primitive should be cared for and kept clean. Windows should be kept clean and clear of furniture. Rubbish, grubby clothes, food etc should not be allowed to accumulate and cupboards and carpets need periodic moving to keep them free from dust. Fresh air should be allowed to circulate. The outside of the house need repainting every 3-5 ^ears and the inside according to the amount it is used and by whom it is used. Above all it is important to remember that it is the atmosphere of welcome friendliness as well as cleanliness which makes a happy successful home. A place where children and parents feel safe, can find affection, comfort and good counsel. A place where the visitor and the stranger will find a real welcome- the offer of a cold cup of water or drink after a journey or to the casual kola is often a good indication of the generosity of the householder.
Healing words
“My son attend to my words, incline thine ears unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes, keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them and health to all their flesh.” Proverbs 4 : 20- 22.
God’s word is medicine to all your flesh, but you need to learn how to take Gods medicine for it to work for you. For God’s word to work for you, you need to not only hear it and believe in it you have to act on your faith
