My children are being raised in a loving Catholic household. While some might associate the faith with negative stereotypes, that’s not the experience we have in our home. We are open and accepting of everyone, and we take time to honor the Angels and Saints as part of our beliefs — and I stand proud in this commitment.
As a mother of four, I strive to cultivate open-mindedness in my kids. They attend a Catholic school that teaches the fundamental principle that every person is created in the image of God. This belief transcends race, sexual orientation, gender, or any other differences; we affirm that we are all cherished children of God.
Recently, my children were invited to share pictures of their families at school. It was heartwarming to see a vibrant display of diverse races, orientations, and cultures, all coexisting joyfully within our parish community. Our school fosters an atmosphere of love and faith, devoid of hatred, and I’m proud to be part of that.
In our family, we embrace the idea that God designed a wonderfully diverse world. With over seven billion people on this planet, each with a unique fingerprint, it’s astounding to consider their individual talents, beauty, and gifts. We believe every person is wanted and valued.
I am fortunate to have a wonderfully inclusive circle of friends representing a wide spectrum of backgrounds and identities. Social media allows me to witness some of their most meaningful life moments. Whether it’s a cherished family recipe or culturally significant attire, I find their uniqueness fascinating and beautiful.
The environment my children are growing up in is vastly different from my own upbringing, where being different often led to unfair treatment. While our world still grapples with prejudice and intolerance, I firmly believe that fostering acceptance begins at home. We acknowledge that all of God’s creations are beautiful and equal, and we are committed to this journey.
In our home, prayer is a cornerstone of our lives. We express gratitude for our blessings while also praying for others, for peace in the world, for unity in our country, and for God’s children to receive love and grace.
From the moment our children enter our lives, we have the power to shape their perceptions. Children are not born with notions of race, sexuality, or hatred; these are learned behaviors. As a parent, I aim to instill in my children the ability to recognize the good in others and to honor their individuality. While the world has its share of love and hate, we must nurture the love.
Alongside teaching my children to respect and love others, I also encourage them to embrace their own identities, whatever they may become. They will encounter a multitude of experiences and diverse individuals throughout their lives.
I genuinely believe that my children are a divine gift, brought into my life for a purpose. They have opened my eyes to a broader world, and I am grateful that faith plays a role in shaping them into compassionate individuals who love all people.
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Summary:
In this article, the author discusses raising children in a Catholic household focused on inclusivity, acceptance, and gratitude. They reflect on the importance of teaching children to embrace diversity, love others, and recognize their unique identities. By fostering a nurturing environment, the author aims to counteract societal prejudices and guide their children to become compassionate individuals.