Indy Parent Help Blog

If you’ve never heard this song by Whitney Houston from the movie Pokemon 2, you’re in for a real treat. These lyrics alone speak to each and every one of us in a way that re-introduces us to what really matters in life. The message is simple, uncomplicated and something we can all relate to. Please read it with the emotion of Whitney, the heart of a lion and the fervor within you. It makes me realize how fortunate we are to live in a country that allows us our freedoms; freedom to worship, freedom to raise our children freely, and freedom to contribute to the betterment of our society through ours and the accomplishments of our children. It begins with us. It begins in our homes and spreads throughout our community, our city, our state and it doesn’t end until we have made our impression on the world, one child at a time. It begins with believing. It starts in the heart and flows through the soul and changes the world. Imagine how life would be, when we stand in unity, each of us holds the key to the power of one. Here than are the words.

You must always remember
Life can be a challenge
Life can seem impossible
It’s never easy when so much is on the line
But you can make a difference
With courage you can set things right
The gift to dream and make dreams real is yours and mine
Each of us is chosen
There’s a mission just for you
Just look inside
You’ll be surprised
What you can do
The Power Of one
Begins with believing
It starts in the heart
And flows through the soul
And changes the world
Imagine how life will be
When we stand in unity
Each of us holds the key to the power of one.

Hugs!

If a child lives with criticism, s/he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, s/he learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, s/he learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, s/he learns to be feel guilty.

But – When a child lives with tolerance, s/he learns to be patient.
When a child lives with encouragement, s/he learns to be confident.
When a child lives with praise, s/he learns to appreciate.
When a child lives with fairness, s/he learns justice.
When a child lives with security, s/he learns to have faith.
When a child lives with approval, s/he learns acceptance.
When a child lives with respect, s/he learns to find love in the world.

I venture to guess that most of us are in the category of the ‘when’s’ ; however, I also venture to guess that we sometimes fall into the trap of the ‘if’s’. The difference in the ‘if’s or when’s’ is in the awareness. Falling into the ‘if’s’ category presents a challenge to us that necessitates taking stock in our approach to what we want our children to learn. Given the fact that all behaviors are learned behaviors and given the fact that all behaviors are need driven, it is in the best interest of all family members to focus our parental energies on the ‘when’s’ leaving no room for our children to learn to live with the ‘if’s.’

The behavioral accountability factor lies with us. Next time we choose to criticize, be hostile, ridicule or shame our children we must take full responsibility for teaching our children to condemn, fight, be shy, or feel guilty; conversely, next time we choose to teach tolerance, encouragement, praise, fairness, security, approval and respect be prepared to witness patience, confidence, appreciation, justice, faith, acceptance and love. The “When’s” have it. Do you agree? Hugs!