“Paul, your book Ten Powerful Things to Say to Your Kids has taught me different ways to approach both my 5-year-old son and my fiancé.
“Recently, my son, Luke, has begun to play T-ball and he loves it. But he wants to be the catcher, and the coach says he just isn’t tall enough. So every day before practice, I remind Luke that his size doesn’t matter—he can be whatever he wants to be. And some days he adds, ‘Even a ballerina!’ I say, ‘Even a ballerina!’ He always replies, ‘NO! Mom, I was kidding!’”
You make decisions about your possibilities, capabilities, and limitations early in life based on what is said to you or in your presence.
—from page 8
“In between T-ball practice, work, school, family, and wedding planning, I rarely have time to take a break and just listen. Recently, my fiancé and I decided to take an hour every day when we get home, ignore the things that need done, and just spend time together talking about our day. It has really improved our relationship, and I know more about him than I thought I could ever find out. Luke joins in these conversations sometimes, usually only for fifteen minutes or so, but it’s nice having his involvement as well.”
…slow down and just listen when listening is what is wanted and needed. So often that’s all our kids need—to be heard.
—from page 69
“As a family, we have been able to overcome issues that we were not speaking about before. Just the other day my fiancé told me he appreciated how I open up to him and that I let him know when and if something is bothering me. I enjoy that as well. No more lingering bitter feelings.
“Thank you.” —Lindsay
If you can talk openly and meaningfully about what matters, your relationships will be able to survive the difficulties that inevitably arise. —from page 8
