While on Oprah's Masterclass, Dr. Maya Angelou recalled the time when she, a seventeen year old, single mother, told her mom, Vivian "Lady" Baxter, she was leaving home. Ms. Baxter's response was perfect, empowering, and comforting. It is quite a jewel to impart to a young person.
"You've been raised...Don't let anybody raise you."
I have been raised. Everything my parents know was shared with me, and as they continue to gain more information, knowledge, and wisdom, the sharing continues. When previously held beliefs change, they share. When they have a strong conviction about something, they share. They are dynamic people. As they grow and change, I benefit from every lesson, trial, win, loss, experience, and observation. I am grateful for that. I've been raised. I know right from wrong. I will not allow anyone else to raise me.
It is important to understand who your wise counsel is composed of and be firm in your convictions. This world is great at trying to convince us that everything lies in gray areas. I know everything is not black or white, but I also know where my unambiguity lies. These are the areas with good judgment, my parents' counsel, and the Holy Spirit's guidance there is no wavering. I have been raised.
"Train up a child in the way he should go, teaching him to seek God’s wisdom and will for his abilities and talents, Even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 AMP
