If I had my child to raise all over again,

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

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

I would 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 would run through more fields
and gaze at more stars.

I'd do more hugging
and less tugging.

I'd see the oak tree
in the acorn more often.

I would be firm less often,
and affirm much more.

I'd model less about the love of power,
And more about the power of love.

~Diane Loomans