I love this comic strip. If you don’t read it, it is a syndicated comic strip called “Baby Blues. Their son Hammie is such a riot. I have another strip featuring him coming up in a few days. I really had to Laugh Out Loud when I read this but it also prompted another thought
He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin. (Proverbs 13:3)
My beautiful wife, of sixteens years now, has been doing the Proverbs on her blog. After seeing the comic strip above I was reminded of the Proverbs. For years my wife and I have tried to instill in our children the habit of saying encouraging words to each other. Now I will admit that on more than a few occasions those exhorting words of “Now how encouraging was that?” have come back to haunt us when we have expressed our dislike of their activities. But for the most part all we have to do is clear our throat and they know exactly what should happen. Not saying it always happens, but they do know. Try to create those habits in your children as well. Also preach it to yourself. Guard those lips!
Upon This Rawk 
Steve
July 21, 2008 at 12:39 am
We all so often forget the power of encouraging words. Thanks.
Amy
July 21, 2008 at 4:16 pm
Barry, this is so true! I read somewhere that every time you give feedback, you should make it a sandwich: something positive, something to aim for, something positive. For example: I really liked how you organized the information for your speech. You may want to think about speaking a little louder next time. But you had a lovely smile for your audience.
Some people might think this approach isn’t realistic in the “real world.” I believe, though, that it comes from valuing people as ends in themselves, rather than as means to an end (by belittling and making yourself feel better, by looking at the person as the way a goal can be achieved). Adults and children both blossom from edifying, true, and positive comments.
barrydean
July 21, 2008 at 10:17 pm
Steve,
Yes there is power in words. We can choose to tear someone down with them or give them courage to continue and not give up.
Amy,
Realistic – schmealistic ….. I like the sandwich approach. Thanks for the feedback.