How does this mechanism work? Let's take a close look at another Torah source. In Mishlei (20:7) it is recorded, "The tzaddik walks in his perfection - happy are the children after him." The meaning of the phrase, "The tzaddik walks in his perfection" means that the tzaddik worked hard to fulfill a mitzvah or to develop a worthy character trait. As a result, Hashem will bless his children so that they can reach that level with much less effort. Their father made the spiritual breakthrough for them, so "happy are the children after him."
The more we dedicate ourselves to Torah observance, the more we enhance the kedushah of our children. Conversely, if we allow our Torah observance to weaken, we diminish our children's spiritual resilience.
Physical traits are transmitted to the child from his inception by DNA coding. Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler writes in his Michtav M'Eliyahu, that spiritual traits are transmitted
both in the womb and after the child is born. If a parent achieves a particular character virtue - even after the child is born - this good trait will be transmitted to the child. It will be easier for the child to master his nature regarding that same challenge. One of the most powerful ways to guarantee that your children follow a lifestyle of mitzvot is to strengthen your own commitment. When you develop control over your eyes, you are helping to build the spiritual foundation of your children.
This is easier said than done, to be sure. As discussed in earlier chapters, the internet poses a particular challenge, one that our parents didn't have. The fact that it is so useful is partly what makes it so dangerous. Our children find themselves in the middle of a great spiritual tug-of-war, where countless mesmerizing and pervasive negative attractions flash in front of them. With one click, they could begin a downward spiral that eventually will lead them far away from Torah values. They need your protection!
Today: Help your children and future generations by controlling your eyes. Grant them "a spiritual inheritance" empowering them with the capability to preserve the well-being of their souls.
Download the GuardYourEyes "Prevention Tips for Parents".