2 min read
Written By:DJ Grick
Over the last few years of raising a
boy I developed a series of question that I ask and statements I say to help
develop him into a healthy young man. Eventually it became obvious that what
was developing would historically have been considered a catechism.
As I have shared some of these
fathers have often asked "Can you send my your list so I don't need to
start from scratch?" This is that list. But let me caution you that each
thing on this list was developed for the needs of my son in our community
context. The list needs developed and changed for your son and his needs.
What
is a Catechism?
cat·e·chism/ˈkadəˌkiz(ə)m/ noun
a series of fixed questions, answers, or precepts used for instruction in other situations.
Oxford Languages
Historically catechisms where used
as a way of teaching. At times throughout history students didn't only memorize the answer, they memorized the question also. Today those failure with this model of teaching associate it
historic Christian denominations, but catechisms where also regularly used in
public education in the 1700's and 1800's.
How
Do I use This List?
My family has a pretty consistent
bedtime routine, so most nights I sit on my son's bed and give him a hug and
kiss goodnight. I like lingering a little and spending just a few minutes
talking and listening to him. This is usually the time we review our manhood catechism.
Sometimes when he is having a bad
moment or needs discipline I will just ask one of the questions below like
"How do men behave?" He answers and quickly and usually knows it's time to change his behavior.
My list keeps growing and
developing. Sometimes things are added when I know he had someone setting a bad example for my son. Other times the list tweaks because of struggles I
see in him.
The important thing for me is
that I am consistent with this. It's not a tool I bash over his head when he
makes mistakes. We talk about true manhood several times a week. My goal is to work the
manhood muscles and help him develop into a God fearing, strong, confident, and caring man.
Question
and Answer:
Q. How do you treat ladies?
A. With respect and honor
Q. How do you treat everyone?
A. With Love.
Q. Why did God give you strength?
A. To protect my family and work hard.
Q. How do men behave?
A. With self-control
Finish
The Sentence:
Dad: Men do what is...
Son: right over what is easy.
Dad: Men learn from...
Son: their mistakes and others.
Final Reminder:
Dad: How much does your dad love you?
Son: Lots and Lots for ever and ever
Dad: Never forget it!
Son: No Way Jose.
Dad: No way Jose!