I was laying in bed last night and reviewing the day – you know R2A2: recognize, relate, assimilate and apply. The thing which struck me was how my son was learning to work with me when I get into my moods.  

Isn’t this supposed to be the other way around?

The fact that he has had opportunities to learn to work with me is something I needed to delve further into. I gave it some serious thought last night and throughout today. 

I don’t claim to be a perfect parent – actually far from it.  I cannot imagine there is such a thing – otherwise would it not be written about, copyrighted and millions sold? Over the last 10 years I have constantly considered what the possible long term effects may result from each of our parenting choices and in many cases have had long conversations with Walter to ensure we approach whatever these choices are as a united front. This was not something I recall having experienced when I was a child. 

When I was a little I was physically punished for a variety of misdemeanors, talking back, using inappropriate finger gestures, and even such things as talking during church. I don’t recall what was the resulting option for the first (although I do recall my siblings getting the belt).  I distinctly remember the second situation resulted in a wooden Dr. Scholl sandal being used. The last action resulted in bruises caused by the use of a wooden hanger.  Although I have no personal recollection of the action, they were confirmed by my sibling and my mom.  When, as an angry teen, I realizing I had the potential to be my parents all over again. I chose at the age of 12 to never hit a child – to not repeat what had been done to me. And many (many) years later, I have not. 

I still experience moments of anger. I used to control it with medicine but I found it dulled every aspect of my life so I stopped.  Now I use the tools we’ve learned in the Master Key Experience – and during the odd moment I am unable to see the forest for the trees – Walter reminds me of the tools to use. Occasionally though we weather the storm (thankfully short) and I eventually see reason. But the storm still exists and my son is now in a space (age and proximity) where he is around to hear it. 

I’ve noticed recently Gregory has been interjecting himself into the discussion and adding his perspective on how we resolve the situation.  My 10 year old is helping me to recognize that I need to stop and listen – allow him to be a part of the solution (especially when he is part of the situation which resulted in the moment). 

I stopped and listened to my son today. I was present in the moment.  I allowed.  And when a situation arose this evening, he and I both handled it differently. The result was more in keeping with my vision of what a parent is to a child.  And what a well raised child can be when working with their parent.  

I am blessed to have these tools. I am even more grateful that by learning them and living them, we have shared them with our son who now uses them to help himself and us!  

What an amazing journey we are on together! 

Thanks for sharing!

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