People ask me how it happens that my children are all so…
““People ask me how it happens that my children are all so promptly obedient and so happy. As if it chanced that some parents have such children or chanced that some have not! I am afraid it is only too true, as someone has remarked, that "this is the age of obedient parents!" What then will be the future of their children? How can they yield to God who have never been taught to yield to human authority? And how well fitted will they be to rule their own households who have never learned to rule themselves?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote warns that over‑protective, obedient parenting may hinder children’s ability to respect authority and manage their own lives later.
In simple terms: Over‑protective parenting can limit future independence.
Key Takeaway
Encourage balanced guidance and self‑discipline.
Themes
parenting
authority
independence
education
future
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- family life
- child rearing
- schooling
- personal development
Key Concepts
psychology
development
socialization
Questions to Reflect On
- How can parents foster both obedience and autonomy?
- What boundaries help children learn self‑discipline?
A Different Perspective
Children may struggle with self‑rule and respecting others.