We all want the best for our children. For many parents, this means affirming our children no matter what they do and normalizing their feelings and reactions in every moment. This school of “gentle parenting” teaches that the world is a tough place, but we as parents can strengthen them with our love and acceptance.

Jacob’s parenting philosophy appears to be the opposite. He seems to believe that the more he criticizes and critiques his children, the better off they will be. He takes it upon himself to point out their failures, even with his very last words.

Interestingly, when Jacob becomes a grandparent, he changes his ways. He not only affirms and loves his grandchildren, but he also claims them as his own descendants. He blesses them. He lifts them up.

If we drop the ball in one generation, is there still time to pick it up?