"Mistakes are always forgivable if one has the courage to admit them." Bruce Lee
Young children have blurred lines between fantasy and reality, so to demand that a three-year-old always tell you the truth is an exercise in futility. But as our children grow, it is important to teach them the value of honesty. First, we need to model that behavior for them. If they overhear us calling in sick when we aren't, or telling what we believe to be harmless white lies, not good.
We also need to make it easy for them to tell us the truth. Why would a child lie? To escape punishment, perhaps? If you are harsh with them for being honest with you, you encourage deception. A good rule would be, just tell me the truth and you won't get in trouble. No need to cover up or come up with some outlandish tale. It is safe to tell me what's what.
As adults we sometimes play childish games, shading the truth to make ourselves look good, telling a loving lie so we don't hurt someone's feelings, but really a mark of maturity is to own your life, own your feelings, own your actions.
Susan
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