Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. (NKJV)
Thoughts
This is geared to you folks with boys. I'll talk to those of you with girls another time. Boys go through various stages as they grow up, but one of the hardest times for them is the preteen and early teen years. Would you like to go back to junior high? I surely would not!
As sportsmen, we have a unique way to help our boys get through this tough period. During adolescence, it is important for them to have a "rite of passage" just as the boys had in Bible times. They are getting ready to be men, and we need to help them. Of course, you have spent time with them, played with them, and taught them many things as they were growing up. Now it is time to put all that to work.
Set up a challenge for them-- possibly their first elk hunt, or maybe a first archery hunt. Spend a lot of time preparing them for this event; make a very big deal out of it. Actually, tell them that this is part of their journey to manhood. Make this a challenge, something that really tests their mettle (safely, obviously); perhaps a night alone in the woods as I had to experience to join the "Order of the Arrow" in Boy Scouts. (Due to resent changes within the Boy Scouts, we can no longer endorse the Boy Scouts)
(Dave H)
Action Point
Now, don't be one of those dads who crushes his son's spirit if he doesn't succeed.
The "rite of passage" is the challenge itself--the planning, sharing, working out and preparation for it--not whether he actually harvests an animal. It should be physically challenging as well, custom-fit for your particular boy. That way, it doesn't matter if he is a jock, a nerd, or perhaps one who has a physical disability; you create it just for him.
Single moms, enlist a man's help if at all possible. Find a mentor for your boy who can help plan this. I can't imagine a Christian man who would not jump at the chance to help if he were made aware of the need. Moms, if for some reason you absolutely cannot find a man to do this, find a way to do it yourself. "Focus on the Family" and "Family Life Today" are resources with helpful suggestions. You will never be sorry that you took time to do this.
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Supporting your favorite charitable organization will help it provide resources for those who cannot afford them. Just be sure that it is a legitimate organization. Groups such as "The Evangelical Council for Financial Responsibility" can tell you whether an organization that you are considering is not only legitimate, but also how much of their money actually gets spent on programs, not fund raising and salaries!
