Tonight I was helping my son do some homework on genetics and their influence on behavior. He had to research some of the human traits that are now thought to be influenced to some extent by genetics. He chose stammering, and looked at some of the research that's been done looking at bio-markers in the human genome.
It inspired some interesting and challenging conversation regarding our ability to manipulate genetics and whether we have a moral right to do so.
I really want Matt to be able to think through his own position on these kinds of issues without me laying on my own interpretation. As a parent I find it hard to convey my own moral compass whilst also allowing my children to reach their own conclusions on what's right and wrong. At some point strong guidance has to give way to being a sounding board.
I hope that in my discussions I reflect an image of life influenced and guided by a faith in the creator.
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Well, I'm not a parent, but I think that kids are at least interested in their parents' opinions, and that by saying what it is you show that it's worth actually having an opinion. The trick, as you recognize, is to say what you think without implying that that's what your son should think too. But maybe saying how you reached your opinion, and if and how your thinking has changed, will demonstrate the equally important point that we can and do change our opinions over time, and that we needn't be afraid that if we take a point of view we'll have to stick with it come what may. I know I've changed my opinions on lots of things over the years -while doubtless remaining rigid and inflexbile about lots of others!
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