"Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same." ~Francesca Reigler
Recently, this profound quotation had a significant impact on me. With Robin off on her medical sabbatical, I suddenly found myself feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. This past year I have taken several advanced personal development courses. I have encountered obstacles that I never dreamed I could possibly do let alone accomplish. Fear is a real emotion that permeates our souls. As children we experience fear when our cries for comfort are unmet and discouragement seeps in as we validate our perceptions according to our views.
Happiness is an attitude, a conscious perspective. As teachers and parents it is our responsibility to nurture the 'nature' of our children. What is the difference? "Nature, which is also known as heredity, is the genetic code you are born with. It is passed on to you from your parents....” Nurture, this is what we as parents and educators provide to our children by our respectful, attentive, and genuine responses to their social and emotional stages of development. Sometimes these responses are puzzling: our actions do not align with our words. How do we break that cycle of 'mixed messages?’ Perhaps by taking pause before speaking; by a gentle touch and presence; by speaking less and doing more; and, by becoming a students of our children.
Throughout the years as a parent and grandparent, I have made mistakes. I have sent mixed messages and have spoken too much, too quickly and too fearfully. My children would quickly remind me that I was 'nagging' or ‘lecturing.’ But, “I'm the mom, the parent, the educator, the....”
What I have learned from my children and your children that despite all the education, life experiences and research, the greatest act of love and thanksgiving is to appreciate each and every one of them for their 'nature' and 'nurture' them individually as God created beings. As we change our attitude to happiness and appreciation, and enjoy each person as a personification of God's unconditional love and incredible uniqueness, we nurture their soul by being present, free of biases, and our own personal paradigms. We overcome fear with trust and faith! What is the definition of "happiness?” It is a state of well-being and contentment.
We celebrate Fall Harvest; we celebrate happiness, love, and the God given right to be deemed "remarkable!” Blessings, Ms. Patty
1 comment:
Thank you, Patty. This is a great idea!
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