Who says raising boys is easier?

[freefaller62]

32. Kids don't understand religion, but they understand parents

I was raised Roman Catholic - - I kept wondering why they preached good behavior, but gave confessions every week for those who did not do what they should. Can you imagine what society would be like if the government did the same thing? The professional religions make little sense. Kids don't understand it. But they know when a parent makes sense.

The key here is the philosophy. Organized religion preaches from a seat of power. They cite the commandments and the biblical texts and tell you that the wrath of God will fall on you if you don't obey your parents. It is not a respectable argument; it's one of fear. You were preaching (sorry for the terminology) from a seat of parental authority that used LOGIC. You were sensible and your good kids received your words well. I must add that you were lucky you did not have a problem child who will not listen to anything. You had a good roll of the genetic dice.

I explained the differences in the prominent religions to my kids when they mentioned it; the history of the Lutheran Church and the Letters of Indulgence was my favorite. The son took it all in and has his master's degree now. The girl just wanted to party.

Sometimes, no matter what, the child won't listen. My vote: Girls are much harder to raise.