"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

Proverb 22:6

           As a leader, business owner, and father, I look at this proverb in many different ways. A leader and business owner should be able to initiate disciplinary action to employees when needed; while at the same time, doing it in a way that will educate the employee and bring out their own talents and good traits that can benefit their work. As leaders, we have the responsibility to train them in the right way. If you want something learned correctly, it is necessary to demonstrate and advise consistently. Patience is a virtue that we cannot afford to lose. This same principle applies to us as parents towards our children. There is a time and a place to initiate discipline for our child. The punishment needs to fit the crime. As a father who desires to lead in a Godly way, it can be a struggle at times to always react in the best way with my child. Just today, I overreacted to something I should not have. I lost that patience. I had to ask for forgiveness. I do not want my child nor my employees to see the wrong reaction or receive incorrect discipline due to my emotions. I want to train them in the way that we should all go. Do as I say. Do as I do.


Patience is the key here. That is something that a lot of us have to work on every day, do we not? I read this; and, for me, I see patience written all over it. A leader must have patience with each employee as they are all different with varying skills. Business owners may have to be patient with their respective markets knowing that you can go through peaks and valleys. Parents have to have patience with their children. Each child learns at a different pace, has different hobbies, likes and dislikes, as well as different skill sets.

Patience may not only involve attitudes or training but also time. "and when he is old" To this day, in my 30's, I still have parents that guide me through life. I still have mentors and leaders from whom I can ask questions and seek advice. As an adult, I still live by the principles I was taught as a child. I am always learning and growing.

We can remember those values and skills we learned as children, brand new employees, young leaders, and even as new parents. Sure, we may steer off of life's narrow road sometimes. We may get lost and not know what to do, where to go, or how to even start getting back on track. If we take just a few moments and reflect on God's promises, the values we have learned, we can get back on the right path. It is good to know, we can carry God's truths and principles. We can carry the knowledge and lessons we have learned. We can use these to guide us in life and to help us stay on course.


-Chef Mike