By Harold Keller

Occasionally, with her permission, I use one of my daughter’s articles in my column.  The reason is simple – Ronny writes better than me and her message is too good for more people not to read.  The following is one of these articles:

“I usually get a little nervous around an armored car.  The security guards look as though they are taking their responsibility of protecting the cash very seriously and I wouldn’t want to get in their way.

Come to think of it, most of the guards that I’ve observed look very serious.  I recently watched an episode of Oprah, which showcased Dorothy’s ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz.  I was surprised, and a little amused, to watch the procession of people guarding those red shoes.  I don’t happen to put the same value on those shoes as other people do, but that’s okay.

Soldiers who watch over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the guards at Buckingham Palace, the men and women who guard the Hope Diamond, and the thousands of security personnel stationed to protect people and treasures around the globe go through rigorous training to qualify them to protect such valuables.  I believe that the best guards are placed around the greatest treasures.

Personally, I can think of no greater treasure than our children.  How much more does God require us to guard them?

My husband and I make no apologies for protecting the gifts that God has given to us.  It’s not an easy job and doesn’t always make us popular with them, but we are committed to their protection.

Last November, my daughter introduced us to a young man who was interested in dating her.  He was quiet and polite.  Later, my daughter wanted to know what we thought.  I told her that we wanted some time to get to know him.  Her father explained to her that we did not have to win him over; he had to impress us.  She is our treasure and we are determined to stand guard and protect her.

Sometimes I feel so inadequate for this job of parenting.  Every day is different and I am totally dependent on God to help me.  I can’t be with them all day long, but hopefully the things that I’ve said, and the prayers that I’ve prayed will surround them always.

I have to trust God, Who is the greatest Guard of all, to protect my treasures.  I do not have a Hope diamond, but I have been blessed with children filled with hope and bright with promise.  I am entrusting them to God’s faithful watch.”

If you have any questions, or comments, please write to Get High on Life,  P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.