Today’s list is actually a poem by Dorothy Law Nolte, who became a parent educator, family counselor, and writer. She published this inspirational piece in 1954.
It speaks to the cause and effect relationship in a child’s development. Although more than a half-century old, its wisdom still offers some wonderful parental advice in the 21st century.
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 ridicule,
They learn to be shy.
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 to be patient.
If children live with praise,
They learn to appreciate.
If children live with acceptance,
They learn to love.
If children live with approval,
They learn to like themselves.
If children live with honesty,
They learn truthfulness.
If children live with security,
They learn to have faith in themselves and others.
If children live with friendliness,
They learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
ThePreachersWord 
I remember reading this many years back. Oh so true, Brother Ken! No parent need be shocked or resentful to see a son or daughter go bad—-if that parent did not set the proper example. After all, one will, yes he/she will, take mostly after one parent. Good food for thought here.
LikeLike
Pingback: Weekly Recap: April 11-16 | ThePreachersWord