Does excessive freedom lead our children to destruction?

We all want to experience freedom. We love to walk freely. We usually do not want to experience slavery to anyone or anything., There may not be anyone who wants that. Therefore, we want to be free from all kinds of slavery that we experience and get upset when we are oppressed. But, if the freedom we experience is uncontrolled, it is possible that it can adversely affect all areas of our lives., It is also possible that it can lead us to destruction. Therefore, we should be careful not to misuse the freedom we have and use it in the right way.

The use of freedom is also important in the case of children. When freedom is not controlled, children go astray. Therefore, parents need to be careful to give children the freedom they deserve and control the freedom they do not deserve. One of the main reasons why many children today go to destruction is uncontrolled freedom. Therefore, it needs to be controlled wisely. Pope Francis says: “Taking children’s freedom is like taking away their future.” Freedom is essential for children’s development. However, it can also be harmful when it is excessive. Freedom is the opportunity to make their own decisions, make mistakes, and find their own way. Giving freedom is a gradual process. We need to give it to children according to their age and learning ability. Many parents express a lot of fear and discomfort in giving their children freedom. However, in such situations, we must be able to behave with caution and wisdom without fear. Giving freedom is not a punishment, it is a loving gift that prepares children for life. Giving freedom does not mean eliminating boundaries. Rather, it is about ensuring safety and security through clear boundaries. Freedom should be something that allows children to spread their wings within safe boundaries. Freedom is essential for children’s mental health. Therefore, parents need to be aware of how to control their excessive freedom without leading their children astray.

Jesus says in John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Parents need to be prepared to set clear boundaries in the freedom they give their children. Parents need to have clear rules about what they can and cannot do. Parents need to talk to their children about why these rules are and the importance of following them. Parents need to have open and honest conversations with their children by encouraging communication. We should give them the freedom to talk openly if they have any problems. We should respect their opinions and correct them when they make wrong decisions. While giving children freedom, we should pay special attention to involving them in household chores, studies, and other personal responsibilities and thus raise them. While giving children freedom, we parents should pay attention to not letting them go into bad associations. We should encourage their good associations and discourage them from bad associations. We should have an understanding of their friends and the places they spend time. As parents, we should be a good example for our children in living with a proper sense of freedom. We should teach them to make their own decisions. By making their own decisions in small matters, they can build their confidence and make the right choices. However, we need to guide them in important decisions. Paul says in Galatians 5:1: “For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

Therefore, as parents, we can strive to raise our children with the right sense of freedom and guide them on the path of goodness. Giving freedom is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, awareness, and active attention. Every little freedom makes children stronger against the world. While imposing some restrictions for their growth, we should also be careful to give wings to their confidence and sense of freedom. May our children grow up confident and responsible.

Fr. Joseph Munduparambil C. S. T