Monday, February 10, 2014

Do I like me enough to see it in others?

Do I like me enough to see it in others?

I know this can sound like a trick question but, in all seriousness do you like you???


This thought began to trouble me when I’d hear tidbits of my attitude in my four year old’s voice. Sigh. 

Here’s the deal…perfection will never be achieved in this world we live in but a challenge attempted (success or fail) well….it means you are trying. The point is I noticed what I heard in her voice. I noticed it was a piece of me and a side of me I didn’t like. I know I flopped as a parent so scratch that mistake and move forward. If this happens to you too apologize to your children if needed. Explain to them that mommy has had a long day and she shouldn’t have responded in “that way.”

I’m not going to harp on my mishaps and you shouldn’t either. As a parent whether you stay at home or not your days are long and tiring and you are bound to “slip up.” I think there’s grace for yelling at the top of your lungs, the snippy attitude that came in response from your child’s request, or the whininess in your voice. 

There’s enough negativity surrounding us and our children. The goal should be to make our homes the one place of refuge. A safe place. A place where our children’s spirits are lifted and not torn into a million pieces.

I started to think about what part of me did I see in my kids that could be labeled as strengths; characteristics I did like.

I see a lot of me in my daughter. She’s independent, strong, out going, she knows what she wants and she's determined. I also see some of me in my son. Jack is organized, he likes things in order and in its right place, he’s loving, and a nurturer. 

Make a list of your strengths and characteristics and see if those are instilled in your children. If they are, foster it and continue to shape it. 

We know all the ugly parts about ourselves so love yourself enough to work through it. Love your children enough to change because they could one day be your little imitators.

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