Thursday, October 8, 2009

The Power of Suggestion

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My son's science book begins with an encouragement to the student to open his mind up to how fascinating science can be even though some people might consider science boring. It goes on to say the student will learn the history of science and history really isn't as dull as some might think.

My son was astounded to read that anyone could think these things because history and science are his absolute favorite subjects. I was dismayed to read them because he had never thought of the words "boring" or "dull" together with either of those subjects until that moment.

My beautiful freckly girl has never thought of her freckles as anything but beautiful until the day someone told her, "I don't care who doesn't like freckles, I think they're great!"

Just last week, everyone in my family heard that teens probably don't like hanging around their parents, but it is good for them to do anyway.

Wow.  Thanks. A lot.  Because my kids had no reason to dislike hanging around us until you just pointed out that maybe they should.

It really bothers me when good intentioned people don't realize the power of their suggestions, especially to children.

As an adult, I know that I can be influenced by the power of suggestion, and my children are even more vulnerable to this, merely by the nature of their maleable minds.

I think it is very important to examine our words and the power of our suggestions before we speak.


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4 comments:

Jessika said...

My kids were shocked to learn via an adult family friend that teens might not want to hang out with their parents. But on the flip side, I was feeling a little tired and overwhelmed this morning so I came here to get the positive power of suggestion from you, who cheer me up on a regular basis.

Celee said...

I'm always explaining to my kids why we don't want to watch a certain movie or tv show or play a certain game. My kids don't understand why so many people don't love the Lord! Such sweet innocense!

Kara said...

I agree. I always wondered when I sat in my teacher workshops and was told "Now you know boys do better with math and science so figure out a way to make the girls like it." We all marched out with that thought in the back of our heads...I know it influenced the way some of us taught or even just our expectations. Now I have two girls one loves math and one loves science. I hope no one ever tells them that statistic!

Val said...

I agree. My daughter has red hair and freckles and is constantly hearing how "bad" these things are...by well meaning people. She's 11 and has always thought they were awesome and make her unique!

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