Explaining Sacrifice

For about a week now, I have been trying to explain what a sacrifice is to my boys. Both of them have been concerned about what they should “give up” for Lent, with ideas ranging from Braille class to taking a bath. Some of their ideas have been made in jest, while others have been serious. I appreciate the fact that they want to “give up” something for Lent, but I also want them to understand that this is an opportunity for them to get better, to improve themselves, to recognize that by “giving up” something they may actually be making a change for the better.

After numerous conversations, we finally decided that my oldest son would “give up” complaining about homework (he really doesn’t like homework and lets me know about it each and every day). In an effort to help him reach this goal, my wife and I decided to place a “nickel jar” on the dinner table. Every time he complains about homework, he has to drop a nickel from his piggy bank into the jam. He will then have to donate all the nickels collected through Lent to a charity.

My youngest son finally decided that he would “give up” yelling when he is frustrated (he really wanted to give up his Braille classes, but mom and dad didn’t give him that option). He also has a “nickel jar” to help encourage him meet his goal.

While both boys have decided to “give up” something, they are both “sacrificing” a behavior they need to give up anyway. Is this really making a sacrifice? I am not sure, but the house has definitely been quieter and homework time more bearable. So far, the “nickel jars” are empty.