At this time of year, of course we’re all thinking about the freedoms we enjoy in our country. We think about the brave men and women who, for countless generations, have fought to preserve those freedoms, some out on the battlefields and some here on the homefront, holding things together, organizing rallies, raising money. I can’t say enough to express my gratitude for the way these people have overcome their fears, their homesickness, their fatigue, and their worry about personal safety to help keep me and my family free.
One freedom I particularly wish to talk about today is the freedom to homeschool. It’s a freedom we’ve had to fight for, and I’m sure the battle will never really be over. In some states, the laws are more restrictive than where I live, and every so often, additional homeschool issues are brought before the legislators. We need to be aware of the laws in our state and be prepared to stand up to defend them if they are called into question. I have to say, though, that I’m so grateful that we can do homeschool at all, even with the restrictions we may or may not face.
When I look at my children and I consider their unique personalities and their unique trials, I have a hard time picturing how they would cope in a public school setting. One son is currently battling an illness that requires him to take pills regularly and to only eat certain foods, and I don’t know how we would ever bring that about in a public school situation. It’s not just him, though—there are at least thirty reasons why I’m so grateful that we have the ability to choose the best schooling options for our children.
Freedom means being able to choose, and it’s a wonderful thing that we as parents can choose homeschool, public school, or private school. I love that we can determine how we carry out each of those choices. I appreciate so much the lawmakers and lobbyists who work hard to protect those choices.
As I sit and watch the fireworks on Monday, with my family huddled nearby, I’m going to give an extra dose of gratitude. We truly are blessed.
Related Blogs:
Honoring Our Children’s Individuality
Adventure to Inspire – Homeschool Blog Review