Are you someone your children can count on?
Here’s a great idea …
In their book, Everyday Blessings, Myla and Jon Kabat-Zinn say, “When a child, no matter how old, feels our acceptance, when he feels our love, not just for his easy-to-live-with, lovable, attractive self, but also for his difficult, repulsive, exasperating self, it feeds him and frees him to become more balanced and whole. Children can face all sorts of difficulties and challenges if they can come back to the well of our unconditional love.”
In other words …
Our love is the base from which our children venture out into the world. When our children know that they will be loved even when they make mistakes, they will be braver and more resilient. They will become stronger people.
How you can use this idea to have a better life …
The next time your child does something that makes you hopping mad, see it as an opportunity to be the safe place for your child. Of course you may provide consequences and discussion in due time, but your acceptance and love assures your child that he or she is safe while learning and growing.
To find out more …
about parenting, check out The Parenting Journey or See the World Through My Eyes programs at arfamilies.org, follow us at facebook.com/navigatinglife,or contact your local county Extension agent. You can also read Everyday Blessings.
2 Comments
As I began reading the post, my mind turned to Christ. When parents express godly love, they unknowingly testify of God. Thank you for the reminder.
wow dr Goddard my friend, you sure do have a way of sharing the spirit through your kind quiet nature. Your books (that i have read) are amazing and true. Thanks for all the spirit spankings!