Why I Put Away My Whistle and Striped Shirt.

It's a nice afternoon here and my kids are outside playing before it's time to do homework.

Actually, they are outside fighting.

I was sitting on the front steps listening to the arguing going on and on and on...

And finally I said, "Um, could y'all yell a little louder, the folks that live over there (pointing to the next street over) can't hear you very well."

They stopped for a moment...

And then went back to squabbling (a little quieter) over the division of driveway territory.

I don't break up too many fights here within Team Babetz...if I did, that would be all - I - did - all - day - long.

Frankly, they need to learn to work it out.

If I do get involved, it is when I hear "Mmoahahahahom" at which time I will remind them that there is no tattling and they need to work it out. Because if they don't, I will. And they dont' want me to pick a winner.

I usually pick me. And the loser's do extra chores.

Now I will break in if meanness starts. Or if physical violence breaks out. But for the everyday, run of the mill argument...

I've learned to just stay out of it and let them figure it out.

It's so much better than breaking in and trying to solve it for them.

They know all the scripture about preferring others above themselves (Romans 12:10) and what the fruits of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22 & 23) should look like...

But they have to be left alone long enough to put those things into practice.

And that is why I have put away my whistle and my striped shirt.