By Lynn Cherry
Parenting advice from Animal Planet? Last week my oldest son, and Killer Whale aficionado, recorded a show called Orca School. We watched it together until I couldn’t take anymore.
In one part of the story, the savvy Orcas are hunting new born sea lion pups by charging up watery channels and practically beaching themselves to nab the defenseless pups. It was heart wrenching and quite disturbing because my son was giggling. He is awestruck, gleefully admiring the power of the ocean’s top predator. They are fabulous creatures. The show chronicled how the more experienced Orcas train younger whales to use this beaching technique that goes against every instinct. They are masterful hunters and excellent teachers.
Sea lion pups are fortunate to have a mother’s care in their early days. One scene pictured a stubborn little pup trying desperately to get in the water. He was fought off by his devoted momma who pushed him plop for plop away from the water’s edge. She could see the dark black dorsal fin of an Orca off shore and she knew what that meant. He barked at her and bit her neck and she barked back and pushed him away to safety. What a good momma! Then the camera shot widened to show another pup bounding alone for the beckoning waves. This momma turned over her shoulder and barked at the motherless pup but kept a strong stance in holding back her own baby.
Sure enough the Orca charges and the hapless unwatched pup is no more. More giggling, sheesh! I guess the reality is the Orca matriarch is not killing for the sake of killing. The pod needs food. Her baby weighs in at 400 lbs. The beach is her grocery store and she makes as many trips as it takes to feed the family. Mothering is a big job. You learn to pick up parenting advice every where you can!
The following is simple parenting advice we can learn from a Sea Lion momma:
1. Children do not always see what their parents see. We are larger and can see farther.
2. Children do not always know what their parents know. Life experience has taught us to avoid certain situations.
3. Sometimes “no” means I love you, I care for you, and I’m doing my best to protect you.
4. When you see other kids doing what you want to do, be grateful that you are not left alone to fend for yourself.
5. If you bark at me, I just might bark back…ha…I like that one.
6. You will probably bite me some day, but even when you hurt me I will not abandon you.
7. For as long as I am stronger than you, I will use that strength for your good and stand in between you and the danger ahead.
8. You won’t understand every decision I make but I hope you can trust that I am FOR YOU!
We want to hear from you: How well do you manage your protective instincts? Have there been times where you have “gone too far?” Have there been times where you feel you haven’t gone far enough? Comment below.
Lynn Marie Cherry – I have recently said good bye to my 30’s. I am married nearly 20 years now to the same great guy, bringing up boys, loving my family and the loving the Lord! Read more at http://LynnMarieCherry.blogspot.com/
Thanks for allowing me to share! The picture is perfect
I need to print and post this as a reminder to myself and my kiddos. Glad none of the lessons involved loud grunts, flipper clapping or raw fish eating!
Wonderfully written piece, great analogy. I know Lynn personally and am impressed, not only with her life but with her family life.
Incredible article. Great thoughts I will use when I become a mom. Good for you, Lynn Cherry!
Lynn, Your wisdom is incredible and insight is inspiring. Thanks for teaching us all what you learn. You are right on my friend! right on! Kelly Mata
I need to print and post this as a reminder to myself and my kiddos. Glad none of the lessons involved loud grunts, flipper clapping or raw fish eating!