Conservative Upbringing Anyone???

I was raised in a very conservative home and today I'm very thankful for that part of my upbringing.  It definitely wouldn't have been considered a strict household, but a way of life with expectations.  We gave our parents reason to trust us, which allowed my older sister and me a lot of freedom.  There were no cell phones back in the day, so we would just call and check in at each stop.  I don't ever remember my mom being asleep when we got home, no matter how late it was.  She always knew where we were and who we were with.  We went to church on Sunday mornings, Sunday nights, Wednesday nights and any other time the church doors were open.  That wasn't a problem because we loved being there.  It was not only our source for friendships, but a place that we experienced true relationships with God.  There were lines we didn't cross, because of the way we were raised and it was who we were.  I met some amazing people during that time and so grateful that I still have a connection with many of them to this day. 

I'm now in my fifties and happy to say that my "conservative" lifestyle really hasn't changed that much.  I know that there are people who laugh at that today, even if it's not always directed toward me.  It's very obvious in today's world that the lines aren't as black and white as they once were, which truly saddens me.   It's the constant compromise in our beliefs and lifestyles, justified with thinking that things just aren't the way they used to be.  Don't take me wrong.  My convictions are mine and you get to have your own.  That's the way God set this whole thing up.  I just want to make sure that I don't get so caught up in what others think is ok, that I forget to remember what is right for me.  I believe that when I know my convictions and follow that path, it will not only please God, but allow me the opportunity to truly make a difference in the lives of others. 

I want to thank you for taking your time out to read my first blog.  This is actually kind of fun!  I can't wait to start writing my next one.