Years ago, before we even had children, a friend convinced us letting a child ride on a mower was akin to murder. We were frightened into banning all grass-cutting activity until our children hit 18.

But I’d grown up on our family’s tractor. I have plenty of fun, and quirky memories from my time on our tractor. Like the time I got the snow plow on the front of it caught in the neighbor’s fence when I was only eight years old. Driving it myself.

So this year we finally broke that stronghold of fear and invited our children to ride on our mower. The smiles on their faces tell the story of growing up enjoying all things in life. The joy of independence. Of trying new things and growing in confidence.

Fear keeps us from so many of life’s challenges. I hope my children grow bold and brave, and say we helped them to become courageous.