There is an amazing piece of advice that King Solomon has given us, that seems to be a contradiction, but when you press your mind onto the meaning of this phrase is quite remarkable, and wise:
“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.”
–Proverbs 26:4-5
This relates to an important concept, that we, as parents have to realize. As much as you think highly of your children, much of what they do, or think – while they are children – is folly. The reality of life is this:
“Foolishness (Folly) is bound up in the heart of a child…”
–Proverbs 22:15
This is why God gave children parents to watch over and protect them. Do not let your child bring you into their “folly.” Do not let your child think they can manipulate you into always doing what they want in a selfish situation.
These wise words are basically saying don’t “REACT” the same way your children (or the village idiots) are acting because you will just fuel the fire. BUT, “ACT” appropriately knowing of the foolishness that exists, so that they too will see the folly of their ways when reason is brought to light.
When kids speak with all their emotion, they will try to rope you into that emotion. They don’t always do this consciously, but this is precisely what Solomon was talking about. So, be careful not to simply fall into the ‘expendable’ emotion that your children are feeling at the moment.
Remember, you are the adult, and they are watching how your ACT in certain situations – to learn how to respond appropriately when the unexpected, or undesired, situations arise. You can do it! ACT in the midst of foolishness.