Last week, my wife and I had the privilege of presenting on the importance of the family to a families’ retreat in New Zealand. We discussed the importance of families from a political, social and theological point of view.
For example, vast amounts of social-science data reveal that even somewhat difficult marriages still benefit children in terms of the outcomes for children down the track. There is something so vital about connecting with our parents – and, as it turns out, with our grandparents – that it overshadows the turmoil adult parents experience.
Challenge
In the post-Christian and libertarian times that we live in, when government and media are overbearing and dominant, it is refreshing when parents remember just how important it is to maintain and defend their autonomy, their dignity, their sovereignty and healthy distance from dependence on the state.
There are plenty of problems that families in New Zealand face as they try to be faithful and dedicated parents. Among the various families we met, we encountered those struggling with education choices, parenting generally, infertility, isolation, poor local formation opportunities, financial provision and illness. It did not seem to matter much if the paid income was from careers in mechanics, teaching, baking, farming, engineering, paramedics or veterinary science.
Perhaps if we could transfer more of the knowledge and wisdom from the retiring generation to younger families, more could be achieved.
Inspiration
Certainly, this is what happened a few weeks back when I had the pleasure of hosting, for News Weekly, a special book launch for the Honourable Ron Boswell AO. Ron’s political memoirs, Ron Boswell: Not Pretty but Pretty Effective, have just been published by Connor Court.
In a packed room of about two hundred guests, former Prime Minister the Honourable Tony Abbott AC officially launched the book while Queensland Senator Gerard Rennick introduced him.
Mr Abbott – who began by noting that the mentoring and analysis provided by B.A. Santamaria and News Weekly were instrumental in his preparation for public life – thanked Ron and commended his contribution to those present.
Ron Boswell’s political career spanned more than three decades in Federal Parliament as a Nationals Senator. His story is one of determination, grit, and persistence, despite hundreds of setbacks.
During his speech, he lamented the lack of practical business knowledge among the ranks of current politicians and called for more Australians – particularly small-business owners – to consider putting themselves forward as candidates for election to Parliament.
I noticed at the event that supporters were encouraged and happy to be together after what has been a time full of news about evil, violent tragedies all too close to home.
We are also celebrating the extraordinarily successful Thomas More Centre’s Autumn School with over 100 people held in Albury recently.
A big thank you to you, for your support, prayers and donations which enable this work to be achieved.
