My mom was an expert in the art of using silence. I immediately revert back to being a teenager when the I think about it.
As most teenagers do, I would do something really stupid. My Mom would usually find out about it and just give me the look. I think we all know this look, where the anger and disappointment in her eyes could practically turn you to stone. She would just tell me she was disappointed, turn away and not say another word. I would go to my room, feeling so bad and guilty. I used to wish she would yell at me. I knew if she yelled, then I could be mad at her!
That silence made me think and realize how I messed up and more often than not, I usually broke the silence with an apology. I in turn, when the situation was called for, I would use this same method with my kids. I think they hated it as much as I did.
Silence is powerful!
Thank you,
Lorie
Do you have a parenting trick you'd like to share? Tell us about it by signing up for the FREE Dr. Laura Family and send an email here.
