“Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.” ~Robert Fulghum
Oh, isn't that a true statement? Today I was with Natalie and the little guys and was trying to get Mason down for his nap. He had decided that Grandma could put him to bed with a little bit of singing and rocking beforehand. But when we got to the rocking chair, he just wanted to run away and play. Eventually, I handed him back to Mom as he wasn't cooperating for Grandma [and grandma was probably a little frustrated with him.] So mom came, laid down the law and put him down. He was indignant for a few minutes, but then settled down for his nap.
I went to sit with Maya on the couch, ready for a little cuddle time as she had been at preschool all morning. She looked up at me and said, "Grandma, are you mad?" That surprised me [because I really wasn't mad] , so I quickly told her no, I wasn't mad. She said "Well, your face looks like it."
Interesting. So my frustration with Masey and his naptime game showed up on my face -- and knowing that brought the above quote to mind. Maya was watching -- very closely, in fact. I convinced her that I really wasn't mad, just a little frustrated that Mason hadn't been especially cooperative, and even more important, that there is nothing either of them can do to change the love I have for them.
That worked for her, and we had a great cuddle and some fun TV time. But it was a good reminder.
They may not be listening, but they are watching. All the time.
4.03.2008
They are Watching
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16 comments:
Amen! It is kind of scary sometimes, isn't it?!
Those kids are so precious. The other day Zoey told Reed that "he better watch it or he was going to get on Mom's bad side". I about crumbled from embarrassment ;) I am sure that I don't ever day that nor do I even have a bad side! I know that they know that you love them, that is what is go great about kids, their ability to love and be loved!
isn't that the truth?! they see and understand more than we realize sometimes.
Great message! It's amazing what they see on our faces. Addie was watching Riverdance the other day and was convinced that Michael Flatley was angry when really I think he was trying to look passionate during a flamenco-like number. When I look particularly dour, Addie will ask me to not put my face that way. She's definitely a constant reminder!
Couldn't agree with you more! I can't believe the stuff they pick up on. I can rarely slip something past my kids - and I wear my emotions on my face ALOT.
Great post! :)
So true!! I love that you got some cuddle time with Maya to help that "mad face".
oh..isn't that the truth. My kids see all. Especially the things I wish they wouldn't see..ha.
That's so cute that little miss could read your face. They are smart little buggers.
Great reminder! They don't miss anything do they?
Ain't that soooo true. I hope I set a good example for my kids!
Your story proves the old adage that actions speak a lot louder than words. I hope your ear situation is improving!
they're watching me lay on the couch. sure hope i'm feeling better someday soon.
Frightening, but true! I wish they would only watch me when I'm being good and just ignore all of the bad stuff! :)
I LOVE that quote, Jan! I need to post that everywhere around my house so I will remember it. I am so glad you shared this. And I love the relationship you have with your grandkids. They are so lucky to have such a open and loving Grandma!!
Very true and very scary. They catch on to every emotion.
Why is it my kids listen to me only when i don't want them to hear what I'm saying?...and yes, they are watching me all of the time..Chase can read me like a book. "Is something wrong mom?" He can ALWAYS tell!...I need to practice wearing a happier face all of the time!
dang. what a great reminder. Kids don't miss a THING. GREAT when I'm on top of things and being a good mom, not so much when I'm tired and ornery.
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