A Rare Disclosure About Family Life
Reba McEntire, the beloved musician and actress, is not only known for her incredible talent but also for her down-to-earth personality.
Recently, in a heartfelt interview, she made a surprising confession about her son Shelby and how her country lifestyle influenced her parenting choices. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing artist and her unique approach to raising her one and only child.
The Country Girl Upbringing
Reba McEntire, now 67 years old, was raised on a ranch in Chockie, Oklahoma. Growing up in a country setting, she helped with the cattle and even participated in a family band. Reba inherited strong values from her father and grandfather, who were famous rodeo champions. Her upbringing in the country shaped her into the authentic and genuine person we know and love today.
Living by the Principles
Reba’s parents taught her the importance of keeping promises and being punctual. “If you tell somebody you’re going to be somewhere at a certain time, you show up,” she fondly recalls. These principles stuck with her throughout her life and became a guiding force not only for her career but also for her role as a mother.
Raising Shelby
Reba faced the unique challenge of raising her son Shelby while being in the spotlight. Despite her fame, she wanted to ensure that Shelby grew up with good values and a humble attitude. One particular decision she made was not letting him win at games or cards. Reba believed that in losing, Shelby would learn important life lessons and understand the value of humility.
“I’ll always love you, but I want other people to like you. So don’t be a little jerk. Don’t be a spoiled brat,” she would say to him. Reba and her ex-husband, Narvel Blackstock, raised Shelby to appreciate and respect others, knowing that no one is superior to another.
A Humbling Journey
Reba openly acknowledges that raising Shelby changed her perspective on life. Before becoming a mother, she admits to being more self-centered. However, with the arrival of her son, all her attention shifted to protecting and nurturing him. She strived to spend as much time as possible with him, often taking him on the road and even personally taking him to school.
Embracing Shelby’s Journey
One of the challenges Shelby faced growing up was ADHD. However, Reba is proud of his progress. From struggling to finish a book, Shelby is now a voracious reader in his 30s. Reba attributes his success to his determination to improve and his father’s influence. Shelby’s journey has been a gift to Reba, as it allowed her to grow as a person and focus on someone other than herself.
A Fairytale Wedding
Reba’s joy for her son knows no bounds. Recently, Shelby tied the knot with his sweetheart Marissa in a fairytale-like wedding ceremony at Walt Disney World. It was a special moment for the entire family, and Reba couldn’t be happier for the couple.
Reba McEntire’s parenting approach is an inspiration to us all. With her down-to-earth attitude, she has shown us the importance of instilling values in our children and teaching them to be humble and kind. Reba’s love and support for Shelby have played a significant role in shaping him into the remarkable person he is today.
