I am reposting my favorite poem, in its entirety, written by Dorothy Law Nolte. This poem hung in every home we lived in while I was growing up. It now hangs in my home, and I love it. So, I thought I'd share.
Children Learn What They Live
If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.
If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.
If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.
If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If children live with fairness, they learn justice.
If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.
If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and in those about them.
If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
Granted, there is no sure-fire, guaranteed method for raising a wholly healthy, well-rounded, happy, respectful, generous child. We are, by nature, tainted and bent toward the defunct. That flaw, however, does not excuse us from doing our utmost to achieve and emulate the ultimate good that is modeled for us in our Lord. With His help, we have hope.
***
James prepped the flower beds for us. He happily pointed out that he "even made pillows for them!" Sure enough, each hole has its own little dirt "pillow" for the flowers.
John told Zorak this morning, "I am super duper smart and I love learning!"
Jacob just might figure out that he CAN, in fact, go from sitting to mobile without having to tip over first. Uh-oh!
***
The boys are wonderful and are doing well, but they are now working out some, um, issues they developed over the last few weeks. In all, today has not been a very good day. I am glad it's nearly over. A hot bath, a good story and and early bedtime are in order (and that's just for me!) Tomorrow will be much better- a fresh and beautiful start, and another day to enjoy one another!
I'll talk to y'all tomorrow!
Dy
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