Suffering

[Garth]

No parent likes to witness their child's suffering! But suffering is part of childhood and growing-up. The Prophets say that suffering is a blessing. Though this seems almost incomprehensible at the time one is suffering, I have found it to be true! I have always emerged from a period of suffering as a better and more spiritual being. Knowing this at the time of suffering helps me bear the weight. Children suffer when we have to punish them. The suffering is short lived but physically and emotionally real at the time. There may be physical pain involved and tears and as parents we find this distressing. We identify with our child's pain and remember the suffering we experienced growing-up. Unlike our children however we know through Jesus that suffering is a blessing. Suffering will lead to a closer relationship with God. Thus when we punish our children and cause them to suffer it is not a sorrowful event at all. It is in fact a time to rejoice. You can't help but notice after a child has been spanked or given a time out a more peaceful, calmer family atmosphere. Inner peace is evident and renewed energy. Discipline means learning has taken place. And where there is learning there is growth. All suffering leads to growth (God). Jesus and all the great Prophets knew this. So rejoice in your own suffering and your child's and be grateful to God for the opportunity through child rearing to know and connect with Him and your child through suffering. Physical pain is unreal! What is real is your immortal Soul! Hidden in suffering is good fortune awaiting you and your child!