The world is a different place than what some of us remember. We lived in neighborhoods and not subdivisions. We had porches on the front of the house and not on the back. The purpose of the porch was to get to know neighbors, engage in conversations, and watch out for the neighborhood children riding their bicycles and playing hide and go seek, Simon says, marbles, and hopscotch. It was family.
Today, children don’t have a community where older people sit on their front porches and tell stories of how they grew up and the lessons they learned. It was a time when children sought knowledge and wisdom from the elders. There was respect. The times have changed, and the definition of respect has changed. The “it’s not my fault,” “I don’t have to listen to you,” and “you owe me because I deserve…” syndrome of entitlement has surfaced. Wow!
When I ask friends what they want to leave as a legacy, it’s not material things or a great deal of money. Most of them have a desire to leave a legacy of knowledge and wisdom to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to ensure a productive future. If given the opportunity, they wish to pass on the pearls of wisdom that have helped them through a meaningful venue like letters.
My dearest son/daughter,
It is my desire to share with you the instructions needed to navigate this world. Do not be quick to scoff at what I will tell you because instructions give you insight into situations and people. Do not reject instructions because it leads to a dark and dangerous path, and sometimes, it is a point of no return. Your first priority is to God. His Word will guide you through the need for wisdom. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7).
Listen as your father instructs you, and do not ignore what your mother says either. Their wisdom will be “a garland for your head and a pendant for your neck.” (Proverbs 1:8). In every area of life, you will meet people who are not for you. They will undermine and manipulate you in order to distract and disturb your journey. Trust that everyone is not a friend. These “false friends” will plot your demise and rejoice when you fail. When you realize their plan, “do not walk with them; hold back your foot from their paths.” (Proverbs 1:15).
I am telling you these things to help develop your sense of discernment and not be caught off guard. Wisdom is valuable. Learn in every situation regardless of whether it is simple or complex. Do not dismiss or think yourself above learning or gaining knowledge. This is where you will lose. Ask the questions, “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge? (Proverbs 1:22).
Do not lose sight and become a scoffer or grow complacent in your faith. My child, there is so much more I want to tell you about honest living, but this is enough for now. Know that my love for you runs deeply.
CrayDawg, Inc. (c) 2025
Coffee Reflections 
So true! Some of my fondest memories are of sitting on the front porch talking with my grandmother.
LikeLike
My grandmother had rocking chairs on her front porch which is where I spend a lot of time. I recall more conversations on that porch that were pearls of wisdom for later. It’s a shame we don’t have that anymore.
LikeLike