Here comes another piece of advice. I beg your indulgence.
Your kids have something to say. They have lives, they have experiences, they have hopes and dreams and schemes. Take the time to listen to all of it. Have the patience to take them seriously, to not just listen, but really listen. To listen with intent. To listen with an open mind and an open heart.
If you do, they may not ask you for another gift. At least not until tomorrow.
[tags]kids, children, parents, listening, parenting, relationships[/tags]
Photo graciously provided by Yives, through a Creative Commons license, some rights reserved
2 responses so far ↓
Rory // Jul 30, 2007 at 7:32 am
We can’t be reminded enough about this, Stu Mark. Thank you.
Thordora // Jul 30, 2007 at 10:16 am
I remember being in my early twenties and seeing a woman on a bus with her daughter, likely the ages we are now. The little girl would not shut up (and lo! how I know that pain!) but the mother kept answering her questions despite being obviously tired and worn.
I’ve kept that image with me because that little girl was vibrant and curious and full of wonder-just what I want my children to be. My own parents took the time to listen, and it’s a gift I can never repay.
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