Character vs .........

Upon the suggestion of a few friends I have been reading the book "Sacred Parenting". The first chapter talks about how pain builds our character. The main idea being that in today's society we are more concerned with shielding our children from pain then building their character. The concept of building character in my children has consumed my thoughts. Inevitably life is going to have some valleys there are going to be hardships, sicknesses, and disappointments the question is am raising my children to be able to stand in the mist of these trials.

Growing up my mom was very sick she has had a treasure chest of illnesses that caused me to have to clean the house, take care of my brother and sister, and her. These experiences shaped who I am, they made me more compassionate and caring, more giving, more nurturing, more loving,......... I know I would not be the person I am today without these "Pains" they shaped my character and showed me I can ultimately get through any situation.

This is not an easy battle so often as parents we want our children to be "happy". We think by them being smart, successful, or attractive they will be happy. The fact of the matter is that theses things do not make you happy. Your character is much more likely to guide you into happiness then earthly treasures. Having hope, contentment, integrity, joy, compassion, grace, self control, etc. These things bring you "happiness". So the question is how do I build character in my children?How do we raise children that can whether the storm? I am much more concerned with JJ and Abby being kind to strangers, have compassion for those in need, and loving there neighbors then I am with worldly success and days that I am not I should be.