Strong and Kind

I've read other books by Korie and her faith shocks me. By that I mean she stays on an even keel no matter how famous they become. Of course we see a minute here and there of their children on tv. The kids seem respectful well grounded and grounded in God. In the world we live in today it seems parents throw the kids out into the world and expect them to become good people. The things that make you a good person are taught. Even though my kids are grown I found some things that I spoke to them about. A+++ to a family that has every chance to fall in fame but keep a good Christian faith

Strong and Kind feels like friendly advice given over coffee, very unlike the parenting books which insist you follow their methods. The key is that, as Korie says, "raising children of good character requires thoughtful, consistent, intentional parenting", and this demonstrates real-life ways to do this. Purposeful parenting isn't a new concept, but I've not yet come across a book which so clearly illustrates how to raise children of good character and faith. It challenges parents to look beyond the current day, to focus on a goal and to work towards that goal.

I don't tend to watch reality TV so I had no idea this was written by the couple from Duck Dynasty; their philosophies and style were all new to me, but I was surprised at the depth I found. Most is from Korie, but Willie's viewpoint is both useful and interesting, and doesn't feel at all forced like some dual-perspective books. Understanding their different backgrounds brought new meaning to some of their insights and helped me see similar patterns in my life and marriage, as well as in our parenting expectations.

Korie explained why they chose "strong" and "kind" as the traits they most wanted their children to possess, not physical strength but the strength that comes from faith in God, emotional strength, resilience, courage and determination, and kindness that encompasses others, bringing compassion, gentleness and thoughtfulness.

After reading, thinking and praying I chose two traits of my own to focus upon, not the same, but for similar reasons. I'll be encouraging my husband to read this too, and I expect to reread it a few more times myself, because there was just too much to sink in at once. Highly recommended for Christian parents who want to raise thoughtful children who can stand on their own.