GPS technology is a wonder of modern science. You put that little box on your dashboard, and you never get lost again. Choose your favorite voice, and you’re off and driving from point A to point B without a hitch.
Yet, if you rely on a GPS device, even if you take the same route often, it’s unlikely that you know the route. You turn right in three hundred feet, then turn left, and you reach the destination on the right without effort or attention. If your little gizmo breaks in middle of the way, you’re in trouble because you have no clue how to reach your destination.
If you are an overprotective parent you are like a GPS device. All your constant intervention, help, protection, and directions might be getting your child from point A to Point B, but when you are not around he will be clueless of how to get where he needs to be.
The driver who always uses a GPS becomes dependent on it and doesn’t know how to get around without it. The child of an overprotective parent also becomes dependent on constant directions and never develops an independent ability to problem solve and navigate the world.
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What a wonderful analogy.
Thanks, Kate.
Perfect! Thanks so much. I needed that today!
Your welcome, Gretchen. Glad you found these sage inspiring.
-Mendel
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