Parent's Message From Melody

Fall 2009

A Way of Being

Hello Loving Parents~

Having recently facilitated a “Communication” workshop for a group of parents and teachers, I once again was reminded of the challenges we all face at times in communicating effectively and from an inner space of equanimity with our children. This tends to be something that was not admirably modeled in most of our homes when we were growing up, nor, unfortunately, is it something we were taught in school. And yet, the art of human communication, coming from a centered, authentic, compassionate, and loving place, is probably the most important skill for us to develop as it affects every one of our relationships—even the one we have with ourselves.

Setting intentions, taking small doable action steps to assist you in meeting your goals, and honoring your feelings throughout the process is a way to begin constructing change in the way you communicate with your child (and others). The following is an excerpt from a handout I developed for the Communication workshop offering you some questions to contemplate as you continue on your journey in becoming a more conscious parent… on becoming the parent you want to be:

INTENTION: A WAY OF BEING WITH OURSELVES AND OUR CHILDREN

What do I really want in my life-long relationship with my child?
What is most important, in this very moment, as I see it?
How do I want to feel inside and look and sound on the outside when I’m communicating with my child in this moment?
How can I be more loving with my child and with myself when situations are challenging?

HONORING FEELINGS:

YOUR OWN AND YOUR CHILD’S

What am I truly feeling in this moment, and what do I need?
How can I be gentle and compassionate with myself when I’m feeling upset, scared, frustrated, out of balance?
How is my child feeling in this moment and what does my child need most in this moment?
In what way can I be more compassionate with my child when s/he is upset, scared, frustrated, out of balance?
Who can I trust to share my challenges with and to listen deeply to what I’m experiencing?
Who can my child express his/her big feelings to in moments when s/he is upset, scared, frustrated, out of balance?

Each of you who are raising children, are engaged in “messy business” (as my friend Laura says). There are many mistakes to be made. Bless them. They are perfect opportunities for us to learn and grow.

It would be an honor and privilege for me to assist you in your journey as parents.

Bowing deeply~

melody

PREVIOUS MESSAGES:
Fall 2007: Holiday Message from Melody
Spring 2007: Father, Dad, Daddy, Pop, Papa, Pa, You are important to your child...
Winter 2007: A Shift in Perception