{I wrote and scheduled this post for today, not realizing that the series hosted by Blue Eyed Bride, Life in the Green House, Kelly’s Korner and Lil Light O' Mine started today. However, when I saw their posts, I realized this fit in with the theme so I decided to link up.}
I started working on this post over the weekend and minutes after I’d finished most of what I wanted to say, I came across this on facebook that perfectly articulates what I was saying in this post.
Hello, ton of bricks. She was right. We’d been at a stop light and our light turned green and I proceeded to drive into the intersection when a car came flying through their red stop light, making me stop suddenly. And I did in fact call them an idiot. But this had been two weeks prior.
In that moment, I realized how much those little ears hang on EVERY word that comes out of our mouths. I mean, yeah, I know they listen, but for that situation to cause her impact two weeks later? It was pretty convicting to have her call me out on that. I told her I was sorry I had said that and I would try really hard not to do that again.
Not only do they dwell on my words, but i realized that others do, too. Do I build people up with my words or am I hurtful? It’s so easy to forget that sometimes the smallest words can do so much damage. It’s important to weigh the choice of our words in regards to how they impact someone.
The exchange with Ava made me stop and think, though. Every thing, every LITTLE thing we say or do around our kids is food for thought. We are “performing” 24/7 and their minds are capable of remembering SO much. I’m certainly not perfect, and would never claim to be, but I need to be a better example for my kids. I’d be so upset if Ava had gone to school and called one of her classmates (or worse, her teacher) an idiot.
I want my kids to grow up to be good, loving people. I want them to know right from wrong, to treat others with kindness and love, and to be examples of Christ’s love. In the mornings on our way to school, we pray and part of our daily prayer is that others can see Jesus in our words and actions. I want my kids to be the ones who stand up for those who are being teased, are there for someone in a time of need, and are kind and encouraging to everyone they meet. I’m trying to teach them to bring their faith to life.
And they have to learn that from me.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
Love your post!!! I've been doing a lot of thinking about this, as our 01 year old is starting to talk and be more aware of her surroundings : )
ReplyDeleteLove that quote/photo and so good Sarah. I have been convicted lately at the WAY mine talk to each other. Just the temper or way the unkind way they yell to their sister - it sounds super familiar. Ugh! On a positive note - they are also listening and soaking up the wonderful stuff. I watch mine encourage, open doors, give and love. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteSo true!! I have caught myself lately saying something and realizing that Cohen was listening. Not that what I was saying was awful, but I wouldn't want him repeating it! I definitely need to be a better example for him. So convicting!!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post and so true! It's easy in the busyness of life to not always use the right tone or to use the word "stupid" (that's the bad "s" word in our house) and I've realized how extremely important it is for me to be the example I want my boys to see.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great post, Sarah. And really convicting-- in a good way! I constantly have to watch what I say. The other day I said, "I am so mad!" And then the next time, I lost my temper, Hudson said, "Uh oh, are you so mad again?" Yikes! It's definitely not the way I want him to think of me. They really are miniature versions of us, and it's like looking in the mirror when they do something they're not supposed to do.
ReplyDeleteSarah, this is so perfect! I really needed this. Recently, B said she "hates" frogs and I said, "let's say we don't like frogs, instead of saying hate becuase it isn't a nice word." A few weeks later, I jokingly said, "I hate doing dishes!" And she said, "you don't 'posed to say hate, cause it's not very nice." Wow! I wonder how many other things she has picked up from me when I haven't been aware of intentional about my actions. Thank goodness for grace!
ReplyDeleteI love that quote!!!! It's something I have been having to really think about and watch! I heart words coming out of Harper's mouth to her sister that came from me and I cringe! Thank you for sharing this Sarah!!!
ReplyDeleteI've been watching my own temper lately and know that I have got to be a role model for my two-year-old in handling emotions. Thank you for this post. I love the quote!
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