QUESTION: Several years ago you shared an “I’ve Learned” list.  Would you please share it again?

ANSWER: I’m delighted to share it again.  I originally read it in the 1998 Minnesota Business Educators Newsletter.

•I’ve learned that just when I get my room the way I like it, Mom makes me clean it up. (Age 13)

•I’ve learned that cheering someone else up cheers me up. (Age 13)

•I’ve learned that although it’s hard to admit it, I’m secretly glad my parents are strict. (Age 15)

•I’ve learned that silent company is often more healing than words of advice. (Age 24)

•I’ve learned that brushing my child’s hair is one of life’s greatest pleasures. (Age 29)

•I’ve learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it. (Age 39)

•I’ve learned that there are people who love you dearly, but just don’t know how to show it. (Age 41)  •I’ve learned that you can make someone’s day by simply sending them a little card. (Age 44)

•I’ve learned that children and grandparents are natural allies. (Age 46)

•I’ve learned that singing “Amazing Grace” can lift my spirits for hours. (Age 49)

•I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a man by the way he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights. (Age 52)

•I’ve learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die. (age 53)

•I’ve learned that if you want do something for your children, try improving your marriage. (Age 61)

•I’ve learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. (Age 62)

•I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. (Age 64)

•I’ve learned that whenever I decide something with kindness, I usually make the right decision. (Age 66)

•I’ve learned that everyone can use a prayer. (Age 72)

•I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one. (Age 82)

•I’ve learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love that human touch, holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. (Age 85)

•I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn. (Age 92)

 

If you would like to talk with a parenting specialist about the challenges in raising children, call the toll-free Parent WarmLine at 1-888-584-2204/Línea de Apoyo at 877-434-9528. For free emergency child care call Crisis Nursery at 1-877-434-9599. Check out www.familiesandcommunities.org