I: Individuality
At first the letter I was a difficult one but then I words began flying into my mind; Imagination, Inspiration, Idealism, Ice Cream. These are all great words (who can argue with ice cream?) and I had sparks of ideas for each of them, but the one that defines us best as a family and as homeschoolers is Individuality.
Maybe it's a throwback to being raised in the 70's, the time of hippies and finding yourself and "peace, love and happiness, man", but in this larger than average family I strive to allow my children to be who they are. I don't ever want them to feel they have to fit in anyone's box. Being pastor's kids, this is something I've had to work even harder at communicating (and demonstrating). Be yourself and don't worry about what everyone else thinks.
Sometimes I think I may have succeeded too well...
But my ultimate desire is that they have the freedom to be the person God has created them to be, and only He knows what paths they will have to walk to fully realize that person. I want to encourage them as children and as they become adults to be themselves. Be individuals. Be independent thinkers. Be all that you can be. Be-- you get the idea.
You would think that all this individual independence stuff would cause an estranged family but it's quite the opposite. We're a close family and actually like each other. Crazy, I know. Somehow, having independent interests and identities makes us stronger as a family. And I don't think that would be possible without homeschooling. Homeschooling allows us the time together, to learn and pursue group interests. It gives us a foundation of home, a safe and secure place to explore the world from, and a strong daily connection. It is a large part of our identity and helps shape us into the individuals we are and will become.
We all have our quirks and maybe this is mine, but I want my children to feel comfortable in their own skin and never feel like they have to be someone they are not. No Stepford Kids in this house.
individuality [ˌɪndɪˌvɪdjʊˈælɪtɪ]n pl -ties1. distinctive or unique character or personality a work of great individuality
2. the qualities that distinguish one person or thing from another; identity
Be Yourself. It's Beautiful.
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