If I had my child to raide over again
I'd build self-esteem first and the house later
I'd finger paint more and point the finger less
I would 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 would run through more fields and gaze at more stars
I'd do more hugging and less tugging
I'd see the oak tree in the acorn more often
I would be firm less often and affirm much more
I'd model less about the love of power
And more about the power of love.
By: Diane Loomans
This poem to me fuels my passion for the early childhood field,
That is a wonderful and quite inspirational poem, Tonetta. I love the twist on our perspectives -- I often find that I need some adjustments like this on my perspective. Thank you for sharing this!
ReplyDeleteThe poem by Diane Loomans, makes me feel good that I did the right things for my child and myself as I was raising her. The house stayed messy while we went outside to jump in puddles. We made a game out of matching socks, instead of me saying,"wait until I finish the laundry". Now don't think everything was "peaches and cream" because there were some challenging moments however the special, precious moments out weighed the "I'm going to pull my hair out" moments.
ReplyDeleteThis poem would be great to present in a parenting class, especially to new parents. It could help them set their parenting priorities.
You are so right about that! I am going to start a collection of poems and quotes.
ReplyDeleteLove your poem, you are correct. I really enjoyed reading it and will pass it on to those who will benifit from it. Great job!!
ReplyDeleteVennetta Henderson