Expectations
Winston Churchill, one of the people I like to read about once said, “a pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity, an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” I like to read things I can understand in a hurry. In depth studies ain’t my bag. I can understand Churchill’s analogy very well. I am trying to improve my communication skills, especially with my kids. In this crazy world, optimism is a powerful weapon.
I know that I have written a couple of pieces on this very subject. I can’t think of a better attitude to extol, can you? I have just spent the last week in a school up north that uses positive action for motivation. Very good place to spend the last few days. I spent hours being evaluated to determine that I have a very high type-A personality. In some ways I was called effusive, enthusiastic. Unchecked, it is called overbearing. I call it me and I have to live with him. I also have to turn any criticism into something I can benefit from. It is up to me. Sometimes I wear me out too. I have to learn to channel my personality in a way that will affect my kids in a positive way. My kids have my full empathy. Notice I didn’t say half-empathy…we joke.
It is all about expectations when raising kids. What you expect of a child and their perception of that is very influential on their self worth. We as parents are creating our childrens’ perceptions of themselves. Set the bar high. Being optimistic is essential, in every instance. Tell them how much you love them and that you expect great things on a daily basis. It’ll rub off on you too! What good does adding negativity to any situation do? None. Some of you pessimists may call it realistic. I call it perception. In any dark situation we are looking for a way out. Devising a plan of action that is optimistic is normally one that is expected to succeed. Negativity zaps energy and there goes the plan. I will not participate in a plan that I think is doomed to fail. That’s stupid.
I expect great things from my children, don’t you? No matter if we perceive ourselves or them as “being behind”, we are still making progress. No matter how far the road, we have started on the way. I know that I believe in the struggle as much as the result, it is always an opportunity. Enjoy the challenge. Talk to you soon.
hi bill…i found your blog as i was reading facebook birthday wishes for jule, a cousin of wade’s. i have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know your delightful family through your entries. your posts are thoughtfully written. thanks for sharing your feelings. take care…..
Thanks Anne!