Have you ever noticed how often those words are said?
How many times have you heard a child apologize to another child and their response is- “it’s ok”.
But here’s the thing, it’s really not ok. Instead let’s teach our kids the power of forgiveness!
**This is a life skill that will help our children understand that they have a choice from an early age.
Since we’ve implemented this in our family, I really give props to my daughter. She forgives and lets things go really easily. When I’m on the other end of her sweet (but maturing too fast) voice saying “I forgive you” it’s quite an amazing feeling. I’d like to think she makes that choice to forgive quickly partly because she’s awesome and partly because of how we’re teaching her.
She doesn’t have to forgive, and she most certainly doesn’t have to right away. She makes that choice each and every time. She recognizes that she too needs forgiveness and holding on to anger doesn’t feel good inside.
Now I’ll share my side of things. I remember countless times throughout my life, adult life especially- where I’ve responded with “it’s ok”. Then I would start the conversation in my head (picture the Inside Out Disney movie characters) and become upset thinking NO it’s not ok, and why did I even say that. Ever happen to you?
The other day my daughter said something to me that hurt my feelings, I can’t even remember what it was. Yet I felt like this was a perfect illustration of what I’m talking about, and you’ll see why.
She quickly realized I was upset, apologized and waited…. waited for me to give her the same fast response she normally gives me when she says “I forgive you”. Crickets. But I wasn’t ready to flash back those 3 words. I explained to her that I needed a minute.
Yea for another opportunity to teach! Even though she is quick to forgive it doesn’t mean others will always be… and that’s alright. Sometimes people need time to digest, process and move to the stage of forgiveness.
Important note, I (of course) told my daughter I forgave her and she (will continue) to think before she speaks 🙂
Gotta love life lessons!
