Boykin Family Coat of Arms

As a pre-fatherhood present, Mandy bought me a copy of Raising a Modern Day Knight by Robert Lewis.  The book talks about how to teach your son to be a man that is honorable and and chivalrous in the way he lives and acts, not just towards women but towards God and everything else.  In the book, he suggested creating a coat of arms for your family that represents the ideals you want to teach your son.  Given my artistic hobbies and an interest in all things medieval, I thought it would be a good teaching tool to use as Brayson grows (and I hope that happens slowly!!)  Here's what I came up with:

The eagle represents nobility of character--in other words, someone who honors his commitments and accepts responsibility.  The allerions (clawless, beakless eagles) represent strength of will--someone who is able to control his impulses.  The fess (the green bar across the shield) represents readiness--someone who is willing and able to act when it is necessary.  The phrase Soli Deo Gloria is Latin for "Glory to God Alone."  When I sat down and thought about what a man of God looked like, these are the traits that came to mind.  And I hope and pray that as Brayson grows and matures (again, as slow as possible!!!), I'll be able to teach him these things, as both my earthly and heavenly father have taught me.

Less than a month left to go before my little man gets here.  Thank you Jesus for blessing us with him.

Keep Soaring,

B