Can we keep our kids from giving into fear, doubt, and selfishness?
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It’s conceivable that I am horribly biased, but on most days our four year old is a joy to be around. She’s happy, funny, polite. She’s full of love and in turn is loved by her friends, her teachers, and pretty much anybody else that comes into contact with her.
How do we keep her this way? How do we keep our good-natured little girl from becoming bitter, jaded, angry at the world and all it’s injustices, to embrace the good and not be swayed by the dark side of The Force?
For all of the faults of the Star Wars prequels (and there are many) they remain a fascinating character study. Anakin Skywalker is first introduced as a precocious nine year old. A friendly, likable boy who wants nothing more than to help others, despite his unpleasant life as a slave.
*Spoiler Alert*
He doesn’t stay that way.
“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate.”
These are the words of Yoda, Grand Master of the Jedi Order. They are just as relatable to our world as to a galaxy far, far, away.
It’s an insidious process. Sometimes there is a single, precipitating event. Other times it is a gradual, festering journey. Doubt, mistrust, insecurity, narrow-mindedness, and misinterpreted words or actions leading to anger, resentment, and selfishness.
A feeling of being unable to influence a preconceived, irrational vision of the future.
A path to the dark side.
Often it is furthered by others. Voices whispering in an ear. Pitiful people looking for company in their misery. Palpatines around every corner.
So what do we do?
How do we ensure that our loved ones stay on the path of the light? I’m afraid that I don’t have the answer.
Yoda also tells us that “truly wonderful the mind of a child is.” Somehow we have to teach them to see the good in themselves and others.
To ignore the outside voices.
To trust and believe in those they love.
The dark side of The Force is strong. Anyone is susceptible to its call and even those closest to us can turn.
Therefore,
“Be on guard, we must.”
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Photo: Phil Roeder/Flickr
This essay first appeared on Jeremy Barnes’ blog, Thirsty Daddy.