“Honor God, love others, respect those given authority." ~ 1 Peter 2:17
Laurie was on her best behavior the week before the dance,
not wanting to give her Dad any reason to change his mind. But when the night
of the long-awaited event arrived, it finally sunk in that her father would not
go back on his word.
He even approved of
her high neck,
vermillion-colored, midi dress that accented her long blond curls. But, as he’d
done with both brothers, she didn’t leave the house without some advice.
“If a boy asks you to dance and you decline, then don't
dance for the rest of the night.” He went on to explain that it was ok to
refuse a request from a boy who was a thug or was known for “using” a girl
sexually. But you should never reject a dance request from a boy just because
he isn't your handsome ideal, only to dance with someone else later. That would
be rude and hurt feelings.
Her brothers hadn’t
escaped Dad’s old-school chivalry either. “Never cross the room to ask the
prettiest girl to dance. It embarrasses the other girls. Choose the closest
one. If she happens to be the most popular, then that’s your good luck. If not,
treat her like the Belle of the Ball anyway.”
Dad’s Old School
advice had nothing to do with his age. The term wasn’t derogatory. He still had
many of the same beliefs and core values he’d been exposed to much earlier in
his life. He simply savored traditions more than current trends.
While some things from
days gone by are no longer practical or relevant, now Laurie has gained a
profound appreciation for his traditional thinking while raising her own
children.
They want their kids
to understand the difference between crass nationalism (“my country right or
wrong, better than everyone else”) and a love of country - celebrating its
traditions and trying to make our country better, more inclusive.
Her Dad’s WWII generation
certainly knew the importance of self-sacrifice. They’ve tried to instill an
energetic, grateful work ethic, whether it’s mowing the lawn, completing
homework, or helping others. They’re changing the “all about me, what’s in it
for me, and how little can I get away with doing” mentality.
Sit up straight. Look
someone in the eye. Stand tall. There’s far too much slacking today. Old-school
behavior goals include proper table manners
and more moderate (less) consumption of food.
Sounds a whole lot like traditional Judeo/Christian values,
doesn’t it? While they haven’t totally disappeared, they certainly need to make
a comeback.
