Replaced Tiger Aims

In a recent New York Times bestseller, Chinese mother Amy Chua struck a nerve with Western parents in her book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother.  By comparing Chinese and Western parenting styles, she discusses the secret to producing such stereotypically successful kids.  Success, as defined by Chua, is remarkable academic achievement: from music prodigies to math whizzes and Harvard graduates.  I would agree - that is success!  Unfortunately for Chua, that is it:  academic and artistic achievement are the highest aim.

I must ask: is that enough?  Are academic and artistic achievements ultimately fulfilling?  What about when that Chinese student graduates and gets his/her first job?  Raises uber successful children?  Then what?  Retires wealthy.  Then what?  Isn't there more to life?

As mom to my dearest Aidan, I want nothing but the very best for him and the greatest of successes.  However, our definition of success and our highest parenting aims are vastly different than Mrs. Chua's.  Success, as we will teach Aidan, is measured not by man, but by God.  Aidan's chief end isn't to be the editor of the Harvard Law Review or to graduate with highest honors (although those are wonderful things); his chief end is that which is for all men:  to glorify God (Romans 11:36) and to enjoy Him forever (Psalm 16:5-11) (Westminster Shorter Catechism #1).

While Amy Chua identifies some definite concerns regarding Western parenting, it's important to remember, for Christians, that success is being faithful to Christ in all things and living a life to glorify Him.  May we, as parents, strive to instill that in our children with Christ's help so that they may enjoy Him forever!