Dear fellow P.K.,

You have two homes. One is a regular house with a picket fence, maybe a tire swing out back and a truck in the driveway. The other has a steeple, double doors and halls to run around in for hours. Don't run in that special room with the big cross though, remember this rule. Nothing is more embarrassing than Dad catching you running around in God's house, though that is quite more embarrassing for him than it is for you. Many people share this home with you and throughout the day you will see them come in and out talking with Dad.

Remember to not bother Dad when he is working. His studies are important and he get's irritated if you interrupt them. Get used to Dad's time being spent with lot's of different people. Sometimes he will get called in the middle of the night or get caught up in a meeting for a few hours. There is nothing to worry about! This is God's time we are on.

At first it will feel like there are eyes on you at all times, it gets annoying at first but then you get used to it. A good thing to keep in mind is that they aren't looking at you as much as they are looking at Dad. To avoid conflict make sure you always look the members in the eye, smile (even if you don't feel like it), and hold the doors open. Even when you get tired of answering the same questions, never show it. Remember that this isn't about you.

My fellow P.K., keep your family close to you. At times this is who you will depend on for all of your support. Dad's work can be difficult at times and it will affect you and your family in ways you can't foresee. It's important to stay together. Get a long with your siblings and always listen to your mother. Dad doesn't want to deal with unrest in his home too.

As far as your church family goes, develop those relationships, go out of your way to say hello and listen to those members with patience. Some might say hurtful things to you about your Dad. Forgive them right away. For you will say things to them that need to be forgiven too. Learn to brush your own mistakes off, this isn't about being perfect. Remember that you are a sinner who is going to mess up time and time again. Cling to Jesus, cling to His word. Stay praying and you will eventually get back up again. And Dad will always be there to pick you up, dust you off and push you to be better.

The longer you fight your label: "the pastor's kid" the harder it will be for you to understand the importance of Dad's job. Embrace your label, embrace your Dad's vocation. Look on it as a blessing and "the pastor's kid" won't sound like a burden anymore but will be your sword to live faithfully, to walk humbly and to be an example of God's love.