Dr James Dobson of Focus on the Family once received an interesting letter from a nine-year-old girl.

The letter was titled “why girls are better than boys.” The list included everything from “girls are kinder to animals,” to “girls don’t smell as bad.” Amused, Dr. Dobson posted the letter in his newsletter, and asked boys to make their own list.  He received a variety of responses, including “boys are better because they aren’t scared of scary movies,” and “boys can build better forts than girls.”

Unfortunately, our society often leans towards that nine-year-old girls’ perspective– celebrating feminine traits and dismissing masculine traits. It’s up to us as parents to remind boys that their natural tendencies to be brave, innovative, and energetic should be celebrated, as well.

For more ideas on raising boys to be godly men, visit Trail Life USA or RaisingGodlyBoys.com.