Children learn what they live

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 be 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 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 he can find love in the world!

By Dorothy Law Nolte

This poem has always been a favourite of mine

For if you are able to read between the lines

You will see the honesty and truth that shines

Every little thing that children experience in their days

Becomes a lesson that for many years...often stays...

Though inexplicable; though unfathomable for sure

Some tiny things that we as children must endure

Become a solid conviction within our very souls

We believe those words another may fling...

We take to heart every tiny little hurtful thing...

We nurture painfully: deep within our tiny hearts

Those awful words that basically tear us apart...

Ah dear Lord; so many cry out in utter pain...

Trying to understand, trying to look within, explain

To their younger selves; to their inner child...

That though others maybe hated them, were shunned

It is not their fault...they are not to blame...

This life we lead is tangled to say the very least

Ah if only we could honestly understand this hidden beast