Reckless behavior, particularly in young boys, may be the uncontrolled expression of a legitimate, even Godly, desire to strive after great and noble deeds. And when the desire for adventure follows a God-honoring course, exciting things can happen.

It may be that mothers have a hard time discerning between when sons need comforting and when they need bucking up. Here's a rule of thumb: If he hasn't faced the trial yet, or he's in the midst of it - encourage him. If he's been to the wars and is limping home wounded - comfort him. Once the wounds are bound up, encourage him to rise and face the fight again.

A careless risk undertaken thoughtlessly or in pursuit of a thrill is recklessness, but a hazard confronted for the glory of God is a different matter altogether.