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Interview with Mary DeMuth

Captain's Log, Stardate 08.06.2007

Today, I’m featuring my friend Mary DeMuth talking about her latest non-fiction book, Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture!

What is postmodernism? Is it good or bad? Does it have anything to do with being an effective, godly parent? With sensitivity, grace, and a passion to help families experience authentic, life–changing relationships with God, Mary DeMuth describes the new way people are processing truth. She reveals effective ways for parents to communicate with today’s kids: by developing relationships, by learning along with their kids, by creating a safe haven for kids to explore their worlds, and more.

Parents will discover how to...

* communicate the gospel effectively to their own children, who may process truth in a new way
* equip their children (and themselves!) to relate successfully with others and avoid isolating themselves from those who need Christ
* lead their families even when they don’t have all the answers

This unique resource offers everyday moms and dads an engaging introduction into the postmodern world and provides the tools they need to relate to it with confidence and faith.






And now, here’s me and Mary!

What made you decide to write this book?

We raised our kids for 2 1/2 years in a culture that was postmodern on steroids (France). I figured if we survived, and our kids came through, maybe we'd have something to share with other parents. I also am tired of parenting books that pound out solutions instead of get to the heart of the matter. Good parenting flows from the inside out. The best thing we can do for our kids is to run to Jesus and have Him move us, heal us, help us, empower us. I wanted to share that message with parents.

Is there a Scripture passage that summarizes what you wanted to accomplish with Authentic Parenting?

It's actually a Greek word: peripateo, which means two things....to walk or circumvent (as in Jesus walking around Galilee with His disciples) and/or the manner in which we live (as in Paul saying to imitate him as He imitated Jesus, to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel.) I help parents learn how to walk alongside their kids, intersecting their world (and understanding it), as well as how to model authentic, vital Christianity in an irresistible way.

You might know (or you might not) that I work with teens at my church youth group, and I've gotten to know the kids' parents quite well. What's one thing you can tell them about parenting specifically for teenagers?

I know that. That's why I think you're so very cool. (Get that nose ring!)

My advice: slow down. Get rid of activities that pull apart the family. Spend time together in relaxed settings. Take walks. Have a family dinner as many nights a week as you can. Parenting happens in the context of unhurried conversation. Don't think for a minute your parenting job is complete once your kids start driving. It's only just begun.

Finish this sentence: Being a parent is like ...

Riding an angry, hungry bull without a saddle. It's a wild, scary, unpredictable ride, but boy-o-boy is it thrilling and lifechanging!

If your kids were all ice cream desserts, what would each one be and why?

Sophie (teenager) would be an Eskimo pie because she likes things neat and contained. Aidan (tweener) would be mud pie because he's a boy. Julia (elementary going on 18) would be whatever ice cream was pink and popular.

You're off the hotseat! Any parting words?

I can't wait until there are little Camys running around so I can aptly welcome you to the world of parenting!

Camy here: Trust me, you’ll be one of the first to know because I’ll run screaming to you for parenting advice! Thanks for being here, Mary!
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