Children Learn What They Live

As I was doing some spring cleaning in the office last week, I came across a little card that I found at a Christian bookstore during my college years. I read through it and remembered again the importance of its words. You may have seen it before, but every time I read it, it has an impact on me.

Here is what it says:

If a child lives with criticism,

He learns to condemn.

If a child lives with hostility,

He learns to fight.

If a child lives with ridicule,

He learns to be shy.

If a child lives with shame,

He learns to feel guilty.

If a child lives with tolerance,

He learns to be patient.

If a child lives with encouragement,

He learns confidence.

If a child lives with praise,

He learns to appreciate.

If a child lives with fairness,

He learns justice.

If a child lives with security,

He learns to have faith.

If a child lives with approval,

He learns to like himself.

If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,

He learns to find love in the world.

© Russ Berrie and Company, Inc.

 

This makes me think about what kind of teacher I am and what kind of parent I want to be. What about you? Do you have thoughts or opinions about these words?