Are my fears my children's

My brother has an incredibly irrational fear of roller coasters.  He has such a fear of them that he never goes to theme parks.  I once invited his son to an amusement park and I quickly realized that my nephew has an irrational fear of roller coasters, and it is my guess that this fear was instilled from his father.  It was then that I started thinking, do I have a fear that I have instilled on my children? 

I must say that I am lucky enough that I will try almost anything once, whether or not I think I am going to like it, so at the early stages of my children’s life I do not think I have shown them a fear of any kind.  However, there is something that I have not taught my children and it is something I have failed to lead by example, and could be considered my fear.

Over the next couple of weeks there are four opportunities, here in the North Deanery, for us to receive the Sacrament of Confession.  Confession is, without a doubt, my least favorite of the Sacraments.  It is my least favorite because it is a time that I have to share my weakness towards sin.  It is natural for ones in a leadership position to do everything in their power to not expose weakness, so I think this is why it is hard for me to go to Confession. 

Now do not get me wrong, I do go to Confession during Advent and Lent, as we are supposed to do.  While I should go more often, I at least go during the two most important seasons of the liturgical year.  And I must say, as much as I dread going on my way to church, I cannot believe how much better I feel the moment I have received absolution.  The feeling of joy that overcomes me is better than any thrill ride at an amusement park.

I tell you this story of my own struggles because although my children do not know how I feel about Confession, for I always go to the service by myself, I am not showing my children that I go, and by proxy, instilling on them a fear they do not even know.  I am sure most everyone believes that parents are the first and most important teachers of our children.  When it comes to faith, it is especially important that we, as parents, lead by example.  Sending our children to Catholic Schools could be all for naught, if we as parents do not take on this important leadership role.

I cannot believe I am the only one that fears the confessional, for if I was, the lines for Confession would be much longer.  So, for me, I will be taking my children to Confession and leading by example.  I will pray that God gives me the strength to overcome my fear, and not instill it on my children, so I can be a better example to them. 

I ask that you consider attending one of the four confession times with your family.   Take this opportunity to lead by example.  I pray for all those that have the same fear of the Confessional I have.  I pray that God gives them the wisdom to understand the graces and mercy that come from this most blessed Sacrament.