A friend shared a link today on the 57 things great parents do to bring out the best in their children - this is Daniel Wong's blog.
57 things sounded mind bogglering! In a time-starved world that I live in, I thought 10 is more than enough. Thankfully the points are in bold, with descriptions follow thereafter. As I scrolled down, several of them rang aloud to me. The following are my own thoughts:
It takes a whole lot more effort to discipline, instill values in the children than it is to give in to them. How many times was I tempted to choose the easier way out - especially after a long, battled day - the last thing I need is to come home to discipline my child. Yet - if I give in the first time, the second time will be much harder to pull the child back to what is deemed right. It is tiring - it still is, after all these years, but I must say my hot-tempered son is more ready to listen to reasoning these days. True that he needs his space and time to internalize my unbending comments, and insistence on certain expectations, but I believe he knows in his heart that mommy meant well. It is then a matter of him coming to terms.
A second thing we are attempting to do is to come together once a week to read the Bible together as a family, and to reflect on what was mentioned, and their key takeaway points. Thereafter, we will pray as a family. This, too, requires effort on our part. When the kids come in with 'black' faces and irritable / foul moods, we will still persevere. I think it is shaping out quite well, and for that I am thankful.
Well, to me, whatever that I am experiencing now, helps to shape me to be a better mom too... and I am thankful for the ability to learn ever so regularly - these valuable life lessons.
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