As we discussed the second great commandment, Love your neighbor as yourself, my children began to understand that manners are one way we demonstrate God s love to people whom we meet. My husband also told our kids about a mission trip to Central America. While he was there, he learned that waving at someone with your palm up was considered rude that s how people call for their dogs. He quickly changed his manner of greeting so that he had opportunities to share his faith. When our kids understand that rudeness can hinder God s work, rules of etiquette stop being parents pet peeves and become important aspects of their Christian life.
Models matter, too.
I severely restrict my children s TV viewing. Yes, I disdain violence, profanity, and careless sex. But I m equally concerned about the rude behavior depicted on many shows. Later in the movie the same characters shoved each other around to get to the front of a line. Avoiding poor role models isn t enough.