The Lightner Family: Lead by Example

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Lead by Example

I am sure that you have heard the saying that you need to lead by example: a good saying but much harder to put into practice. It scares me at times when I think of my kids following my lead. I hope there are things (which I am working on) that they DON’T follow.

There is one family who I think does a really good job… one that is on TV for millions to see, but who are doing a great job that we need to follow. The Duggar Family from Arkansas is THAT family… the one with 19 kids and is on TLC. They have a great godly testimony and have a conservative worldview which is commendable. They have followed the Word of God and have saturated it into the hearts and minds of their children. They do a great job!

Several weeks ago our homeschool network had an announcement that the Duggars would be in Iowa for a free event on Labor Day. Danny and I were both excited to pack up the minivan and take a little trip. It was only 2 hours away and with no plans on Labor Day, we thought it was a perfect fit.

We had a fabulous weather day and perfect company – thanks, Stufflebeems for being part of the LIghtner Family! We heard a few sessions with the Duggars and the host family, the Bontragers, but the two things that really stick out to me are 1) a great day with family doing family things together (is that redundant?). 2) Being around like-minded believers who value the Word of God and teaching it to their children. It was a blessing and encouragement to me to KEEP ON GOING! DO THE HARD WORK! IT WILL PAY OFF IN THE END!

There were about 1200 people at this farm and there were hardly any problems. The kids were well behaved and nice to each other. There were families TOGETHER with fathers leading and doing the hard work with the moms. It was great to see… refreshing really!

Jim Bob and some of their kids… just in the crowd talking with families!

Our girls waiting for the session to begin!

The host family… the Bontragers

The Duggars…well, only 17 of the kids, though. Josh is in DC with his family and Jill was assisting some clients in the delivery of their babies!

Hannah and Miss Sherri in the cow barn! The host family are dairy farmers. It was SO interesting to see the cows up close (even the calves) and watch the milking process! The kids didn’t even mind the stinkiness too much!