Slingshots, Frogs and Lost Stories

 How much does your family know about you? My dad did not share his life and thoughts with us though I believe he was tormented by memories of his time as a prisoner of war in World War 2. I have shared before that I think he was a ponderer because many times he would be deep in thought where he did allow visitors. I have many times wished I had more information about him. I have written about his boyhood in Mclean, Illinois with stories others shared. This was where he fished in the creek, made slingshots, and learned to shoot so well on a bet of one nickel he shot the hat off the man walking across the street. I would love to know more about him in his childhood unfortunately his story died when he did. Did he have a good time growing up on a farm? How did he feel about fishing at the creek in the early morning? Did he think about God? Was he close to his mother? Did he do things with his father? How terrible were his 26 months in a POW camp in Germany during WW2? Did he call into the heavens for an unseen Father to help him, did he recall his mother’s poem about her God? The story of your life is invaluable to your children and grandchildren even if they might not fully realize it now. I love writing so it is easy sharing the many stories I have in this mind of mine, but for you who do not love writing find ways to share. The bible says many times to tell your children your stories especially times that God has saved you, blessed you, guided you, loved you, and forgave you.

 

I read in Deuteronomy 4:9 about this very thing.

But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren.

One of my favorite verses is Psalm 71:18.

So even to old age and grey hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.

Sadly the Bible also tells of the tragedy of generations who were godless.

And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the work that he had done for Israel. Judges 2:10

Talk with your children as you walk along about the Lord. Maybe as you bait his hook as you sit on the bank of a creek, tell him of an adventure you had as a child. Even better if you can recall your God blessing you or protecting you. Tell them how important praying is in your life and recall how your family has been the recipient of great answers to prayers. Put Him first in your life so those who come behind you will find you faithful to our God.

To my own family, I have shared many stories in these last years and will in days to come. It’s amazing how many memories clutter an old woman’s mind after 74 years of living!