Inspiration ~ If I Had to Raise My Child Again

Here’s a short inspirational video based on the poem, “If I Had My Child to Raise Over Again” by Diana Loomans.  The New York Times and Denver Post newspapers called Diana’s poem, ” The Poem of the Year.” 

Good Housekeeping called it, “one of the most important poems ever written.”

The poem was reprinted on thousands of websites and books including Chicken Soup for the Soul.  If you’re a tea drinker the poem is on the back of Celestial Seasoning’s popular new flavor, Honey Vanilla Chamomile. 

A smile still comes to my face when I think about how Nathaniel would smile at me as a baby from his stroller when he would hear my voice.  Thirteen years later and now he’s calling me, “Old man.” 🙁 

Please watch this video with your focus on the present and how starting today you can begin cherishing your children.

If I had my child to raise over again,

I’d finger-paint more, and point the finger less.

I’d do less correcting, and more connecting.

I’d take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less and know to care more.

I’d take more hikes and fly more kites.

I’d stop playing serious, and seriously play.

I’d run through more fields, and gaze at more stars.

I’d do more hugging, and less tugging.

I would be firm less often and affirm much more.

I’d build self-esteem first, and the house later.

I’d teach less about the love of power,

And more about the power of love.

It matters not whether my child is big or small,

From this day forth, I’ll cherish it all.

copyright (c) Diana Loomans

Are you more optimistic or pessimistic in your parenting style and approach to life?   While most of us are a mix of both, some have definite leanings to one side or the other.  Visit Diana Loomans website, Everything is Possible and take the Pessimist-Optimist test.