|
The beginning
of a new year is a traditional time for making resolutions. Some of
them we keep and some we break. But our most important resolutions are
worth stating, if only so that we can focus our efforts in the right
direction.
Family Circle magazine once printed some very good resolutions for parents.
They bear repeating because they are important for all parents to keep
in mind throughout the year:
• I will always love my children for who they are — not who
I want them to be. It’s an important distinction.
• I will give my child space to grow, to dream, to succeed and
even to fail. Without that space, no growth can occur.
• I will create a loving home environment, regardless of what effort
it takes at a given time.
• When discipline is necessary, I will let my child know that I
disapprove of what he does, not who he is. Again, it’s a very important
distinction.
• I will set limits and help my children find security in the knowledge
of what is expected of them. They will not have to guess what is right
or wrong.
• I will make time for all my children and cherish our moments
together.
• I will not burden my children with emotions and problems they
are not equipped to deal with.
• I will encourage my children to experience the world and all
its possibilities, taking pains to leave them careful but not fearful.
• I will try to be the kind of person I want my children to be:
loving, fair-minded, giving, and hopeful.
It’s a tall order, but these resolutions are all worth the effort.
When in effect, they can make a real difference for children.
|
