A Nice Reminder

The following was shared with me by a friend, and I have it pinned up right next to my desk – I hope that you find it helpful as well!

“A Child’s Advice to His Parents”, by Judge John D. Montgomery

My hands are small. Please don’t expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball.

My eyes have not seen the world as yours have. Please let me explore it at my own level without unnecessary restrictions.

Housework will always be there, but I will be little for only a short time. Please take time to explain about this wonderful world.

My feelings are tender. Please be sensitive to my needs. Treat me as you would like to be treated.

I am a special gift from God. Treasure me as God intended, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and disciplining me in a loving manner.

I need your encouragement to grow, so go easy on the criticism. Try to correct my behavior without criticizing me as a person.

Give me the freedom to make decisions. Permit me to fail, so I can learn from my mistakes. Then I’ll be prepared to make the kind of decisions life requires of me as an adult.

Don’t do jobs over that I have done. This makes me feel that my efforts don’t quite measure up to your expectations. I know it’s hard, but please don’t compare me with my brother or sister.

Please don’t be afraid to leave me for a weekend. Kids need vacations from parents, just as parents need to get away occasionally. This is also a great way to show us kids that your marriage is very special.

Please set a good example by taking me to Sunday School and church regularly. I enjoy learning more about God.

Great advice from a child to his parents! I especially like the second to last point – I sometimes fall into the trap of thinking that my kids need/want me to be around ALL of the time, but this just isn’t true! They enjoy and need the break from me as well, and like the attention that they receive from another loving adult. I also like the reminder that my children’s feeling are tender – every child is different, but I have one child that is especially sensitive, and I need to be careful of my words around this child.

God bless! Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!