HOW A CHILD LIVES: CRITICISM, ACCEPTANCE, ENCOURAGEMENT...

The following poem, by Dorothy Nolte, is a strong reminder of the power parents have over children. Do we express criticism or acceptance of their innocence? She describes the consequences of parental choices and how they can affect the inner child. I have cherished this poem, keeping a copy in my possession for years, because it speaks truth.

A Child Lives What He Learns

If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn. If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy. If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight. If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty. 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 appreciation. 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.

by Dorothy Law Nolte 1972