There is no greater calling than being a parent! That choice influences the family, the church, the community, the nation and the world. As we consider the epidemic of obesity in the U.S., especially childhood obesity, it’s interesting that this condition is influenced by the emotional attachment of the mother to the child in infancy. A study out of Ohio State concluded that, “The extent of attachment security between mother and child when the child is aged between 15 and 36 months appears to be related to the risk for obesity in that child when it is 15 years old. After adjusting for sex and birth weight, the risk for adolescent obesity was found to be 2.45 times higher in those with the worst relationship compared with those considered to have the highest-quality relationship.” (Pediatrics. Published online December 26, 2011) So why not begin today in emulating our Good Shepherd, “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” (Isaiah 40:11) Doing this will establish a meaningful and secure relationship (attachment) with your child or grandchild and may prevent serious health issues later in their life. Remember, it is never too late to start.