i know that "family and parenting" may not relate to me yet, however the topic is so interesting i cant resist...
as some of u might know from my other post(s) in youth related topics i am about as far left and liberal as any Christian can get. yet i am starting to realize now more than ever (thanks to the help of Boanerges, RichardS, Violet, and others) thats alright with God. Jesus doesn't have a political party or endorse any corporate conglomerates. I may know this but many kids my age turn away from, suppress ,and eventually push away their christian values. this is due to the fact that they supposedly "do not fit the stereotype and will not be excepted by these uppity Christian republicans." they can't even see God for who he/she really is, and even if they do they will fear his/her eternal love.
The church has to many false representatives all over the boob tube claiming they are true christians, then a month later we see them getting arrested for some sort of fiscal or sexual misconduct.
it is natural for the youth to defy and denounce governing authorities and if we as Christians allow our belief to get intertwined with governing authorities then the youth will do the same to christ.
(now that i read back it seems i have gone off on a meaningless rant)lol
in conclusion what i am trying to say is that older Christians should stop judging and pushing away their children and grand children, and teach them(us) about Christ not their own intolerance. They should except them for their hair, piercings, and tattoos (because its too late if its already there, might as well accept it)... and then maybe we can work on our souls instead of the vehicles which carry them.
much peace and love