Sweet Speech 24 October 2001 Dear Sisters, I wrote these few paragraphs some time ago, and wasn't sure if I had forwarded it to the list. Just reading over it impresses upon my heart the need to respect all those we love ~ young and old. I've often heard the saying "children should be seen and not heard". What a tragedy! With the right kind of training, the right attitude on the side of the momma, what people of substance we can make of our children, with help from the Lord. As my children get older, teaching them to speak calmly, respectfully, politely and with clarity is one of my main objectives. When moods start swinging (and they do!) I always remind them of the need to check their tempers, control their behaviour and remember to always speak to each other as if they would a stranger. I am their constant conscience, tapping them on the shoulder, giving them a 'look', using body language. Even when I am in another room, my ears are always on 'radar scan' mode, listening for bad attitudes in their speech. I will often call them to me, correcting them as situations arise. Not later. There and then. Sisters, there's no time like the present, yes? Anyway, here's a little more on sweet speech, and may we always use our mouths as a blessing to our children: I was pondering just this morning how effective it is to talk to our children nicely. I have seen the changes in our children's attitudes when I consciously speak sweetly to them. They seem to be more willing, more responsive, more eager to please and do well. I am in awe at what little it takes to make these precious ones happy. Just by adding, "thanks, poppet", or "sweetheart" or "precious" on the end of any sentences makes them glow. They buzz along, quite gleefully. I am going to purposefully do this daily. Wishing you blessings of sweet love speech! Love, Helen |