Children Learn What They Live With

Your words are powerful.  Here’s encouragement to use them wisely.

If children live with criticism,

                  They learn to condemn.

If children live with hostility,

                  They learn to fight.

If children live with ridicule,

                  They learn to be shy.

If children live with shame,

                  They learn to feel guilty.

If children live with encouragement,

                  They learn confidence.

If children live with praise,

                  They learn to appreciate.

If children live with fairness,

                  They learn justice.

If children live with security,

                  They learn to have faith.

If children live with approval,

                  They learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance and friendship,

                  They learn love is in the world.

-Anonymous

Question: How have good words—or wounding words—affected how you speak to yourself,  your children, or to others? Let us know about the power of words in your life in the comments.

Blessings,Poppy SmithInternational speaker, multi-published author, Bible teacher, and spiritual coachInspiring Women to Thrive! Permission to use this article is granted provided the following credit is fully included.Poppy Smith is funny, warm, and passionate about helping women grow spiritually and personally so they experience the love and power of Christ in life’s ups and downs. A former teaching leader with Bible Study Fellowship, Poppy has a Masters in Spiritual Formation and ministers extensively as a retreat and conference speaker both in the US and around the world. For more information about Poppy’s heart, her books and ministry, please visit her website at www.poppysmith.com.