I came across this poem on the wall in a hospital...
A Child is Born
If a child lives with Criticism - HE LEARNS TO CONDEMN
If a child lives with Hostility - HE LEARNS TO FIGHT
If a child lives with Ridicule - HE LEARNS TO BE SHY
If a child lives with Shame - HE LEARNS TO FEEL GUILT
>=======================<
If a child lives with Tolerance - HE LEARNS TO BE PATIENT
If a child lives with Encouragement - HE LEARNS CONFIDENCE
If a child lives with Praise - HE LEARNS TO APPRECIATE
If a child lives with Fairness - HE LEARNS JUSTICE
If a child lives with Security - HE LEARNS TO HAVE FAITH
If a child lives with Approval - HE LEARNS TO LIKE HIMSELF
If a child lives with Acceptance and Friendship HE LEARNS TO FIND LOVE IN THE WORLD
I find this really (REALLY!!) challenging in my role as 'Father'.
On one hand there is the reality of my human-ness with failings, limitations and mistakes.
But on the other hand there is sooo much potential to give our children what we only hoped for.
I want to aim for the more positive things at the bottom of the list.
I hope this is inspirational.
/orange