Signing Off

  When you drop your child off for the day, what’s your sign-off phrase?   “Have a great day!” “Don’t forget your lunch.” “I love you.” “Remember to turn in your permission slip!”   Not bad. But looking over this list, I realize that my daily send-offs can be pretty mundane, if not flat out procedural. After all, it’s a challenge to be creative when I’m still waiting for the caffeine to kick in and I’ve got a line of mini-vans and SUVs behind me in the drop- off line.   But I’ve started to wonder- could these daily send- offs really be an opportunity to encourage my children, not just throughout the day but throughout their entire lives?   In the newest Cinderella remake, Ella’s mother often blesses her with a simple exhortation- “Have courage and be kind.” It’s a sweet sentiment to the young girl, but something she finds great strength in long after her mom’s untimely death. As I watched this movie, I had just one thought… “Wow, my send-offs need some work.”   (I wish I could say I didn’t find so much parenting inspiration from Disney movies but let’s face it, I’ve got young kids so I’ll take it where I can get it.)   The good news: we don’t have to be terribly creative when it comes to finding better  (READ: life- affirming) send-offs for our kids. God’s Word is full of bite-sized encouragements we can pass along to our children each day:   “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” “Let all that you do be done with love.” “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” ^“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”   I admit, I snagged actually couple of these from my daughter’s AWANA handbook (like I said, inspiration where ever I can get it).   Do you have a favorite send-off for your kids? I’d love to hear it! Please leave a comment and share your thoughts!