are those parents who make their peace with spilled milk and with mud, for of
such is the kingdom of childhood.
is the parent who engages not in the comparison of his child with others, for
precious unto each is the rhythm of his own growth.
are the fathers and mothers who have learned laughter, for it is the music of
the child’s world.
and wise are those parents who understand the goodness of time, for they make
it not a sword that kills growth but a shield to protect.
and mature are they who without anger can say “no”, for comforting to
the child is the security of firm decisions.
is the gift of consistency, for it is heart’s-ease in childhood.
are they who accept the awkwardness of growth, for they are aware of the choice
between marred furnishings and damaged personalities.
are the teachable, for knowledge brings understanding, and understanding brings
love.
are the men and women who in the midst of the unpromising mundane, give love,
for they bestow the greatest of all gifts to each other, to their children,
and—in an ever-widening circle—to their fellow men.
_______________________________________________________