Mindfulness

     Children are like a sponge, they soak up everything they hear and see us do. I remember when I was a little girl and I use to play school at home. I would pretend to act like my first grade teacher scribbling on my board with chalk, passing out paper in perfect rows on the floor...I literally transformed my bedroom into my first grade class! That memory along with so many other positive examples by adults impacted my life in a way that I am most appreciative. But what happens when children see behaviors that are least positive/productive?
     Over the years I have seen adults yell, curse, and even become physically aggressive towards those in leadership or authoritarian roles (some reality t.v. shows and social media have also played a part in these types of behaviors). Over the past two decades I have witnessed the "bad behavior" of the adult in the presence of children. This leaves such a damaging effect on the child and it also distorts their perception of the adult receiving the attack...meaning, the child begins to think that it's acceptable behavior and in turn begins to act the same way because no one has shown them/taught them differently.
     As we encounter young people, let us be reminded of the influence that we have over them. Let us learn to be mindful of our actions towards one another and more importantly, let us be mindful of the way we interact with them. Scripture teaches us a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1 NKJV). It is our responsibility to show our young people a different way of doing things because sometimes we may be the only positive example that they have. So let's choose our words and actions wisely...now go out there and be GREAT!