"A Mother's Words"

This morning started out the same as any other. Usually Emily is already in our bed when I wake up from sometime in the middle of the night, then Alex will wake up and crawl into bed, too and we'll watch a few cartoons. Then we get up and have breakfast. Nothing new. But this morning, I step outside for one second to let Skipper in, and I hear Emily screeching! "What was that about?" I asked. {and usually I already know} I assume it's because Alex has said something to tease her and she didn't like it. I responded with, "Alex did you tease her?" and he said no. He said, "I just said what time it was and Emily yelled and said she hated me!" Oh no. I was very upset with Emily for saying that, and after she apologized, I told her those were not nice words and I do NOT want to hear them again!

I'm not sure why she says that or where she heard it, but it lead me to this devotional in my Mom's Devotional Bible.

"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me!" How wrong this little poem is! It would be more accurate to say: "Though sticks and stones inflict great pain, their hurt will fade away. But just one sharp and biting word brings harm that's here to stay."

Our words are powerful. With them we can build up and encourage, or we can tear down and destroy. And ah, a mother's words carry added weight. How quickly and easily her words can wound or heal. We've all seen the anguish in a child's eyes at the harsh words of her mother, and we've seen a child's eyes and demeanor brighten when the same mother offers praise and encouragement. Here are some tips to keep our speech "child friendly":

* We should think before we speak. Our mothers taught us this trick. It's still true.
* Offer more praise than criticism. Children need ten times as many encouraging remarks as negative ones. They-like us-are easily influenced by correction and need a great deal of praise.
* Experiment with a variety of verbal forms. Be specific. Be creative. When our children grow older and reject our spoken words, we can write them notes of encouragement. When they're away from home, we can send letters with our love.

In so many words, mothers can give children hope or hindrance. Which will it be?

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. COLOSSIANS 4: 5-6

I pray that I am able to teach Alex & Emily the importance of their words and that some words are very hurtful, whether they meant them or not. I am also not always careful with how I choose my words and am gratefully reminded with this scripture.

well, we're off to the Children's Museum in the big city, and i know we will have a great time, be in great spirits and have nothing but nice, encouraging things to share with each other! we'll be sure to share our day with you upon our return! have a wonderful blessed day!