If I had my child to raise over again,
I'd finger paint more, and point the finger less.
I'd do less correcting, and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I would care to know less, and know to care more.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I'd run through more fields, and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging, and less tugging.
I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd teach less about the love of power,
And more about the power of love.
It matters not whether my child is big or small,
From this day forth, I'll cherish it all.
I found this poem online by Diana Loomans and was very touched by it and wanted to share it on my blog, mostly because I wanted to be sure I have a copy of it! But also I feel it will touch every parent who reads it. Our society is so busy these days running here and running there it's hard to remember to take the time to enjoy life, enjoy the simple things and find the happiness and stillness when raising children. This is an excellent reminder.
