Words of Hope: Good Judgment
If you fly to Oklahoma City, you will see a famous quote by Will Rogers: “Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.”
Dad was a phenomenal teacher of good judgment for Jay and me. He helped us learn from his mistakes. He and Mom clearly outlined their shortcomings and ways they worked through these challenges with mentors.
Dad believed that addictions, proclivities, and generational sin needed to be clearly understood by children to avoid the same pitfalls. Just like an experienced guide can point out areas of danger and the best way to get through these dangers, a wise parent can advise children to avoid the same traps and tragedies.
Dad always struggled watching kids make the same mistakes as their parents. Kids who hated their mom’s alcoholism only to become alcoholics. Moms are cut off from their daughters and raise daughters who end up distant from them. Sons who struggle with addiction are unaware their fathers shared the same struggle.
Dad understood that healthy, wise vulnerable conversations heal us and help students face the possible pitfalls of their family and generations with wisdom and courage.
“My son, do not lose sight of these—keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life for your soul and adornment for your neck.” – Proverbs 3:21-22
