“He who heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof goes astray.”
Proverbs 10:17
Many years ago, I read a story that, at the time, I thought was quite meaningful. I believe it still holds great relevance today. I searched the Internet to see if I could find the source, to no avail, so I share my recollection as follows:
There once was an old woodcarver who was well known for his beautiful artistry. He wandered into the woods one day and searched for a stick to carve. As he sat on a stump, he began whittling away. Each time he ran the blade across the grain, or made a cut, the piece of wood yelled out in pain. “Ouch,” it said. “Please stop.” “You are hurting me.” The woodcarver kept to his task, aware the stick was rebelling, but kept his vision at the forefront. After several hours of carving, he held the completed project up to his mouth. Out of the unformed stick he created a flute, and when he blew gently across the mouthpiece, beautiful music flowed out.
This story reminds us that we are all like that piece of wood. A bit rough in the beginning, but God takes us in His hands and forms us into a work of perfection. Some of our experiences are painful, but each one is designed to help us grow.
Our children, too, must be shaped and molded so they can achieve greatness as God has intended for them. Often, parents need to correct children through words or actions so they learn. Sometimes siblings or friends provide fraternal correction, and coaches and teachers do the same. It is not always easy to accept constructive criticism or consequences for a misguided action, but it is done with the intent to help each person improve to become the best version of themselves. As parents, it is hard to see our children sad, but just like the piece of wood, without a little bit of pain, they cannot grow and be formed into greatness.
In Mission, Kathy
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