Blog 138: Honoring Our Children

By Vernon M. Herron

     Very soon, we will observe “Children’s Day,” at which time we will honor all beloved children. After all, at one time we all were children. Today, we observe two brothers who are among the finest children in the “world.” They are Simeon and Solomon Ray, who possess qualities and traits we wish for all children. 

     Simeon is seven years of age, (He and I were born on the same date: Oct. 7) and is a third-grader at River Oaks Academy on Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road with a high aptitude. He likes to collect gemstones and does research to learn about them. He records that information in small notebooks for future use.

     When  Simeon was five years of age, he was recognized in Blog 43 for his use of the word “awesome.” He has steadily built a strong and diverse vocabulary. He is observant, creative and destined for greatness. Keep your eye on this future leader.

     Solomon is the older and big brother at nine year of age. He likewise attends River Oaks Academy and is in the fourth grade, where he demonstrates academic  leadership. He is a trail-blazer. For instance, he gave the offertory prayer in church last Sunday and the congregation was moved with his sincerity, originality and delivery.

     Solomon and Simeon are not only brothers but they are friends, bonded helpers and fraternal explorers. Both have biblical names. They show and express their love toward their parents and other family members.  They enjoy phone conversations and always end them by saying "I love you." They have friends of all ages – children and adults. They are good students and consistently do well in school.  They are multi-age grouped where learning takes place according to ability and not according to age.They enjoy and use the computer regularly, but they still love and appreciate books.  They enjoy regular trips to the public library and they have favorite bookstores they like to visit.

     They enjoy special times with their dad, especially fishing trips and visits to the Bass Pro Shop.

     They like pets, the usual ones like dogs, and the not so usual ones like the turtle they had at one time.

     They like music and both of them sing in Friendship's Children 4 Christ Choir.  Solomon plays the saxophone in his school band and has also taken violin lessons.  Both of them are being taught piano lessons by their mother, who is the music teacher and band director at their school.

     They are obedient and they understand the importance of respect and good manners.

     Simeon and Solomon are the sons of Mr. and Mrs. Kwasi Ray and the grandsons of Dr. and Mrs. Rudolph Hendricks.

     We recognize and honor the Ray boys today but in fact we honor all children who are home trained.