Boys, Violence, and What About It

by Hal | January 21st, 2010

Here’s a great essay from the journal First Things — Sally Thomas’ thoughts on boys, violence, and how to think about them:

What I think I have come to understand about boys is that a desire to commit violence is not the same thing as a desire to commit evil. It’s a mistake for parents to presume that a fascination with the idea of blowing something away is, in itself, a disgusting habit, like nose-picking, that can and should be eradicated. The problem is not that the boy’s hand itches for a sword. The problem lies in not telling him what they are for, that they are for something—the sword and the itch alike. If I had told my aggressive little son not, “Be gentle,” but, rather, “Protect your sister,” I might, I think, have had the right end of the stick.

By all means, read the whole thing!

  • maryjoann

    I would love to win. Susan

  • http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/ourfunhouseofgod/ Alexia

    oooh, I think I may get flack…somewhere & someday… but I totally agree.

    My sons are told never to start a physical fight, but to defend not only themselves, and their sister, but those that are weaker and/or defenseless in general.

    and they ARE to step in to defend someone even if it is “none of their business” as those in my culture would love to put it. :-D

    Anyway, I just found your blog, a friend of mine recommended it on facebook. :-) I am looking forward to pouring over it, during nap time. :-)

    thanks!!

  • http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/ourfunhouseofgod/ Alexia

    oooh, I think I may get flack…somewhere & someday… but I totally agree.

    My sons are told never to start a physical fight, but to defend not only themselves, and their sister, but those that are weaker and/or defenseless in general.

    and they ARE to step in to defend someone even if it is “none of their business” as those in my culture would love to put it. :-D

    Anyway, I just found your blog, a friend of mine recommended it on facebook. :-) I am looking forward to pouring over it, during nap time. :-)

    thanks!!