"But it belongs to the center of the Christian message that children are not properties to own and rule over, but gifts to cherish and care for. Our children are our most important guests, who enter into our home, ask for careful attention, stay for a while and then leave to follow their own way. Children are strangers whom we have to get to know."
— Henri Nouwen
Source: Reaching Out: The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life
Children, parents, trust
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"Well had Thou made him [my son Adeodatus]. ... I confess unto You Your gifts, O Lord my God, Creator of all, and of exceeding power to reform our deformities; for of me was there naught in that boy but the sin [editor's note: Adeodatus was born to Augustine outside marriage]. For that we fostered him in Your discipline, You inspired us, none other — Your gifts I confess unto You."