It is easier to build up a child than repair an adult. Choose your words wisely. - Matthew Jackson Let's talk about how to speak to children. Sounds like a no-brainer, hmm? If you're a grandparent, you've spoken to your own children, your friend's children, the neighbor's children, kids at church...everybody talks to kids. Perhaps you are gifted with endless amounts of patience and children have never irritated you. Perhaps you are careful with every word that comes out of your mouth. Perhaps you are one of those folks who always speak words that are kind and helpful. But. Maybe not. When I reflect on my time as a mom, I remember times when I wish my words had never left my mouth. It would have been helpful to delete and start over. I could tell the minute I let harsh or unkind words escape. Hurt showed in the eyes of my children. It showed in their countenance as mouths lost their smiles. It showed as tears began to trickle down cheeks. Mother Teresa reminds us, "Kind words are short to speak, but their echoes are endless." Speaking kindly to my grandchildren is a second chance. I keep thinking, maybe I'll get it right this time. I've learned it is so important to consider the words that flow from my mouth. Join me in this prayer from Psalm 141:3: Lord, help me control my tongue; help me be careful about what I say. Let's choose our words wisely. Please use the free download below for words to use in your conversations.
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