Author Unknown

What Matters Most
A Memo From Child to Parent

Don't spoil me.
I know that I ought not to have all that I ask for
- I am only testing you.

Don't be afraid to be firm and set rules and limits.
It makes me feel secure.

Don't protect me from consequences.
Sometimes I need to learn the hard way.

Don't let me form bad habits.
I rely on you to detect them in the early stages
and and give me direction BY EXAMPLE.

Don't make me feel smaller than I am.
It only makes me behave badly to prove that I am "big".

Don't correct me in front of people if you can help it.
Praise in public. Chastise in private.

Don't put me off when I ask questions.
If you do, you will find that I will stop asking you
and seek information elsewhere.
Don't tell me that my fears are silly.

They are real to me
and you can do much to reassure me
if you try to understand.

Don't be inconsistant.
That confuses me and makes me lose faith in you.

Don't EVER think that it is beneath your dignity to apologize to me.
An honest apology makes me feel surprisingly warm toward you.

on't forget that I can't thrive without lots of love and affection.
I need your quality time and your affection.

Because "stuff happens", lets stick together.
I believe in you.
I need to know that you believe in me too.

- Author Unknown