There are certain values we want to pass down to our children. Many times, the best you can do is to try to be a good example. For example, there are, and always have been, plenty of “please” and “thank you” comments bandied about in our household. And we’re teaching him kindness by being friendly to others and by showing compassion when a person is sad or hurt.
But sometimes watching your child take what you’re teaching and make it his own is just an amazing thing to behold.
Devin has this core of sweetness that displays itself in the most heart-warming moments. Simple ones at that. Like tonight, when I was reading him “Hop on Pop” and we got to the page that reads:
“SAD
DAD
BAD
HAD
Dad is sad.
Very, very sad.
He had a bad day.
What a day Dad had!”
Before I turned the page, Devin leaned in and gave a big smooch to the sad Dad.
How can I not be proud and touched by that?
Certainly he’s demonstrated his share of naughtiness (like banging little Jake’s head on the door last week…oops!). But there’s that loving nature that he has that I just adore. It gives me promise that he’ll grow into a caring individual. As long as my example doesn’t break down somewhere along the way.
We’re lucky we live in an era where we can openly teach our boys to be caring. I watch my younger brother struggle with this mightily.
I don’t care if my boy is rich, famous or powerful. I will know I’ve done my job if he is kind.
i love hop on pop!
NO PAT NO, dont sit on THAT!
alas, the two year old is too young to get the funny.
Very sweet. The whole leading by example thing ha to be so hard given how easy it is for each of us to break down at one point or another.
could you imagine what our world would be like if ALL parents set such an example of compassion and empathy for their children? what you’re teaching devin is something that will be passed down from generation to generation…i guess the way we parent will be our contribution to world peace. keep it up!
Thanks for the comments, all!
Melinda, I have to admit I forget that it used to be different a couple of decades ago. I don’t even think twice about teaching him tenderness. Thankfully, right?
Sarah, I certainly try to be a good example, but I know I make plenty of mistakes too. I guess the best way to parent is just to put your heart into it and hope you succeed. If only he’d follow my example and eat his vegetables!