Put it down.
No.
Don’t drop that.
Be careful.
Come here, now.
We do NOT…
Don’t touch that.
Stop moving.
Stand still.
When you have a toddler running around you house, the words that frequently come out of your mouth are a symphony of negativity and commands. Quick responses to keep little hands from harm sound sharp and requests to move more quickly along to the next activity are frustratingly ignored in the hopes of “2 more minutes, Mommy?” I know how important kind words are to building up the hearts and souls of the women I meet online. I understand in the deepest parts of myself what a difference it makes when someone corrects me with love. I’ve seen the difference grace can make when poured gently over a challenging situation. And yet, when it comes to my family? They don’t always get the best of what I have to offer, or even a glimpse of what I’ve learned.
I’m sharing the rest over at Mothers of Daughters today – I’d just love to have you join me over there!