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6 Lessons People Often Learn Too Late About Setting Boundaries

May 5, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Group of people, including a child, walking together down a tree-lined path.
Image Source: Unsplash

Some lessons in life don’t click until you’re already deep into burnout, resentment, or regret. And when it comes to boundaries—those invisible lines that protect our time, energy, and mental well-being—many of us don’t realize their power until we’ve let them be crossed too many times.

Boundaries aren’t about being cold or difficult. They’re about showing up for yourself with the same care and consistency you offer others. But far too often, people learn that the hard way. Here are six boundary-setting lessons people tend to discover too late and why understanding them now can change everything.

Saying Yes All the Time Doesn’t Make You a Better Person

For people-pleasers, the word “no” can feel like a personal failure. But constantly saying yes to others often means saying no to yourself. You wind up overcommitted, overwhelmed, and quietly resentful.

Many people don’t realize until much later that being agreeable doesn’t automatically equal being kind or generous. True kindness involves being honest about your capacity and making sure you aren’t running on empty. The most generous people are the ones who know when to pause and refill their own cup.

Not Everyone Deserves Unlimited Access to You

One of the toughest lessons is that just because someone wants your time, energy, or attention doesn’t mean they’re entitled to it. Whether it’s a friend who constantly unloads their problems on you or a coworker who expects you to pick up the slack, it’s easy to fall into a dynamic where you feel like you’re always available because you’ve never said otherwise.

Eventually, many people learn that availability is a form of currency. When you give it away without limits, others will take it without pause. Boundaries teach people how to treat you, and setting them makes it clear that you value yourself.

Guilt Isn’t a Sign You’re Doing Something Wrong

Setting a boundary can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re not used to it. That discomfort often shows up as guilt, and for many people, guilt becomes the reason they don’t follow through.

But guilt isn’t always a reliable indicator of wrongdoing. Sometimes, it’s just a byproduct of doing something new and unfamiliar. Many people eventually realize that the first time you enforce a boundary, guilt is a natural reaction, but it doesn’t mean the boundary is wrong. It just means you’re growing.

Image by Brooke Cagle

You Teach People How to Treat You

It’s easy to blame others for crossing your boundaries, but if you never made your limits clear, how could they know? It’s not always comfortable to communicate your needs, but it is necessary.

Many people learn too late that being passive or vague leads to confusion, frustration, and repeated boundary violations. Being direct, even if it’s awkward, is what builds mutual respect. Clear boundaries are an act of self-respect—and they often inspire others to respect you more, too.

Avoiding Conflict Just Delays the Explosion

Some people avoid setting boundaries because they don’t want to rock the boat. They’d rather stay quiet, keep the peace, and hope things get better on their own. But that’s rarely what happens.

Instead, unspoken frustrations pile up until they come out all at once—often in a way that damages relationships. People who wait too long to set boundaries usually end up learning that avoiding small conflicts now only creates bigger ones later. Boundary setting isn’t about being confrontational. It’s about preventing resentment from festering and exploding.

Boundaries Don’t Push People Away. They Keep the Right Ones Close

One of the most surprising lessons people learn is that healthy boundaries don’t drive people away. In fact, they tend to do the opposite.

The people who truly care about you won’t be offended by your boundaries. They’ll respect them. They may even feel safer and more connected to you because your relationship has clarity and mutual respect. It’s often only after enforcing boundaries that people realize they’ve made space for the right relationships to thrive, while the ones that couldn’t handle limits were never meant to last.

Setting boundaries isn’t about becoming rigid or selfish—it’s about creating space in your life for what matters most. It’s about protecting your peace, your values, and your well-being. And while these lessons often come with a bit of pain or hindsight, they’re powerful reminders that it’s never too late to start.

What’s one boundary you wish you had set earlier in life?

Read More:

Setting Boundaries with Your Grown Children: It’s Healthy

How Do You Teach Kids About Consent and Boundaries?

Riley Schnepf
Riley Schnepf

Riley is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.

Filed Under: Mental Health, Parenting Blog at KidsAintCheap Tagged With: assertiveness, boundaries in relationships, emotional health, healthy habits, Life Lessons, mental wellness, personal growth, self-respect, setting boundaries

8 Expenses for Children That No Parent Should Be Paying

April 4, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Portrait of two young elegant brothers posing in wooden frame, looking at camera, wearing fashionable eyeglasses and bow tie.

Image Source: 123rf.com

Raising kids isn’t cheap—we all know that. But somewhere along the parenting journey, the line between providing and enabling can get blurry. Sometimes, we foot the bill not because it’s necessary, but because it feels easier than teaching a valuable lesson. If you’re paying for everything under the sun just to keep the peace, it may be time to reassess. Let’s dive into the eight expenses that might be hurting more than helping—and what you can do instead.

1. Constant In-App Purchases and Gaming Subscriptions

It’s easy to tap “approve” when your child begs for that $4.99 skin or add-on, but it adds up fast. These small digital purchases can teach kids that gratification is only a credit card swipe away. Instead, set spending limits and make them earn virtual perks through chores or allowances. This builds delayed gratification and financial literacy. Teaching kids to wait or work for things trains them to value money—not just use it.

2. Expensive Trendy Clothing

Trends fade, but money lessons stick around. Buying your child every new drop from popular brands can create entitlement and poor budgeting habits. There’s nothing wrong with style, but there’s value in teaching kids how to mix high-low fashion or shop secondhand. Let them use their own savings if they really want that pricey hoodie. It builds independence and helps them distinguish between wants and needs.

3. Extracurricular Activities They’re Not Committed To

We all want our kids to explore their passions—but not at the cost of endless sign-ups and dropouts. Paying for piano, soccer, karate, and coding class when your child isn’t committed can waste time and money. Encourage your child to stick with one activity for a full season before moving on. This teaches discipline, commitment, and respect for your investment. It also gives them the chance to truly learn and grow.

4. Unlimited Data and Streaming Services

Kids don’t need 24/7 access to every app, streaming platform, and social media site. These recurring costs can become long-term expenses that don’t offer much return. More importantly, unrestricted digital access can hurt attention spans, sleep, and social skills. Offer limited screen time and explain the cost of these services. If they want more, let them contribute to the bill—it’s a powerful lesson in responsibility.

5. Fancy Birthday Parties Every Year

Adorable kids have fun together throw colourful confetti at birthday party. They playing together in different games, spending time in decorated studio. Children and events concept

Image Source: 123rf.com

Throwing a birthday bash with ponies, entertainers, and custom cakes might make for good pictures—but is it really worth it every year? The pressure to “go big or go home” is strong, but kids often remember the love and fun more than the decor. Save the splurges for milestone birthdays and focus on meaningful experiences the rest of the time. Teaching kids that joy doesn’t always have to come with a price tag is a gift in itself. They’ll carry that mindset into adulthood.

6. Daily School Lunches from Outside Restaurants

Grabbing lunch from fast food places every day is costly and often unhealthy. While it may seem like a small treat, it creates a habit that’s hard to break and expectations that are hard to meet. Instead, teach your child how to pack a lunch or get involved in meal prep. This promotes healthier choices and saves money. It also shows them the value of effort and planning.

7. Replacement Fees for Lost or Broken Items

Replacing water bottles, jackets, and headphones every month because they were lost or broken? That’s a pattern worth addressing. Covering these costs every time removes accountability. Instead, encourage your child to take care of their belongings and, if they lose them, have them help cover the cost. This builds mindfulness, responsibility, and problem-solving skills.

8. Their Gas Money Once They Start Driving

While it’s normal to help with driving expenses initially, paying for all their gas long-term can teach the wrong message. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and gas costs are a real-world responsibility. Encourage your teen to get a part-time job or handle small errands to contribute. Even if they just chip in occasionally, it sets expectations for adulthood. It also makes them think twice before making unnecessary trips.

Why It’s Okay to Say No

Setting financial boundaries with your children isn’t mean—it’s wise. When parents constantly pay for everything, kids miss out on essential life lessons. It’s not about withholding; it’s about preparing them for the real world. Learning how to manage money, work for things, and value what they have builds confidence and resilience. By saying “no” sometimes, you’re giving your child something far more valuable: self-sufficiency.

What are some expenses you’ve stopped paying for that taught your kids important lessons? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how other parents handle this!

Read More:

Parenting the Second Time Around: 12 Reasons Your Parents Shouldn’t Be Raising Your Kids

Parenting Myths Busted: The Outdated Advice You Can Finally Ignore

Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: budget tips, child responsibility, financial literacy, kids and money, Life Lessons, modern parenting, Parenting, parenting boundaries

10 Things Every Teen Boy Should Hear from His Mom

April 2, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Happy mother and son sitting on sofa and using digital tablet at home
Image Source: 123rf.com

Raising a teenage son comes with its challenges, but one of the most important things a mom can do is make sure he hears words that guide, encourage, and shape his future. While the teenage years are often filled with independence and self-discovery, boys still need reassurance, wisdom, and emotional support from their moms. Some messages may seem simple, but they carry lifelong significance.

As boys navigate the pressures of growing up, they internalize lessons that will shape their relationships, careers, and overall well-being. By reinforcing important values and emotional awareness, moms can ensure their sons develop confidence, kindness, and respect. Here are ten things every teen boy should hear from his mother.

1. You don’t have to be tough all the time

Society often teaches boys to hide their emotions and appear strong at all times. While resilience is important, vulnerability is just as valuable. Let your son know it’s okay to feel, express emotions, and seek support when needed. Being emotionally open doesn’t mean being weak—it means being human.

Encouraging emotional honesty helps boys understand that they don’t have to suppress their feelings. Whether he’s experiencing stress, heartbreak, or uncertainty, he should know that expressing his emotions is normal. As a mom, showing him that strength and sensitivity can coexist will help him develop emotional intelligence that will serve him throughout his life.

2. Respect is earned, not demanded

Respect isn’t about dominance or control—it’s about how you treat others. Teaching your son to respect others, regardless of status or background, creates a foundation for healthy relationships. People won’t respect him because of his title, wealth, or appearance, but because of his integrity and the way he treats those around him.

Respect goes beyond politeness; it’s about genuinely valuing people for who they are. Help your son understand that listening, being considerate, and treating others fairly are traits that will carry him far in life.

3. Consent matters—in all situations

One of the most crucial lessons a mother can teach her son is the importance of respecting boundaries. Whether in friendships, dating, or personal interactions, he should understand that no means no and that mutual respect is key.

Respecting consent isn’t just about romantic relationships—it extends to personal space, decisions, and autonomy. If someone feels uncomfortable or says no, he should recognize and honor that boundary without hesitation.

4. You are more than your accomplishments

Teen boys often feel pressure to succeed, whether in academics, sports, or social status. While ambition is important, it’s essential to remind your son that his worth isn’t solely defined by achievements. His kindness, character, and how he treats others will always matter more than accolades.

Perfectionism can create anxiety and self-doubt. By reinforcing the idea that mistakes and setbacks don’t define him, moms help their sons embrace their growth journey without feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations.

5. Asking for help doesn’t make you weak

Many boys hesitate to ask for help because they fear appearing weak. Reinforce the idea that seeking support—whether emotionally, academically, or physically—is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Strong people ask for help when they need it, and doing so doesn’t make them any less capable.

Help your son understand that life’s challenges don’t have to be faced alone. Whether it’s talking to you, a teacher, a mentor, or a friend, seeking support builds resilience rather than diminishing independence.

6. It’s okay to walk away from toxic people

Teenage friends walking down the street in summer day
Image Source: 123rf.com

Not every friendship or relationship is meant to last, and some people bring negativity into your life. Help your son understand that protecting his peace by walking away from harmful situations is always an option.

Knowing when to leave a toxic friendship or relationship teaches him self-respect and boundary-setting. If a connection drains him, belittles him, or constantly creates negativity, he should feel empowered to step away without guilt.

7. Treat women how you’d want someone to treat me

A mother’s relationship with her son sets a precedent for how he treats others, especially women. Remind him that respect, kindness, and consideration should be the foundation of all interactions.

Understanding respect starts at home. If he sees his mom being valued and heard, he’ll carry those lessons into his future relationships, knowing that healthy connections are built on mutual care and equality.

8. Failure isn’t the end—it’s a lesson

Teen boys often struggle with fear of failure, but learning from mistakes is crucial for growth. Show him that failure isn’t a sign of weakness but an opportunity to improve, adjust, and move forward.

Mistakes are inevitable, but they don’t define him. Remind your son that setbacks are stepping stones toward success, and how he responds to failure matters more than the failure itself.

9. Your voice matters—use it wisely

Boys should feel empowered to speak up for themselves and others, but they should also learn the importance of listening. Encourage him to use his voice thoughtfully and responsibly, knowing that words hold power.

Help him understand when to stand up for what’s right, when to defend himself, and when to use his voice for others who may not have the courage to speak up.

10. I will always be here for you

No matter how much independence he seeks, a teenage boy needs to know his mom is a safe place. Reassuring him that your support is unwavering will help him feel secure as he navigates life’s challenges.

Even when life gets busy or communication shifts, he should know that you will always be there to listen, guide, and support him. This constant reassurance can shape his ability to trust and seek healthy relationships in the future.

Building Confidence Through Words

Teen boys may not always show it, but the words their moms say stay with them. By instilling confidence, kindness, and integrity, mothers can shape their sons into strong, compassionate individuals who carry these lessons into adulthood.

What’s something you wish someone had told you as a teen? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s start a conversation about empowering young men.

Read More:

What’s Your Parenting Style?

Parenting in the Age of Doubt: Are We Losing Confidence in Our Choices?

Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: emotional support, Life Lessons, Motherhood, Parenting, raising boys, respect, teen advice, teenage development

Your Child Watched You Do One of These 7 Things, And It Changed Their Life

April 2, 2025 | Leave a Comment

Image Source: 123rf.com

Children are like sponges, soaking up everything they see and hear—especially from their parents. Your actions, even the smallest ones, can leave a lasting impression on your child. Without realizing it, you might have done something that shaped their perspective or inspired them deeply. Here are seven impactful things children notice and carry with them for a lifetime.

1. Showing Kindness to Strangers

When children see you offer a helping hand or a kind word to someone in need, it teaches them empathy. Simple acts like holding the door open or volunteering at a shelter leave lasting impressions. These moments show that kindness is a strength, not a weakness. Children who witness this are more likely to grow into compassionate adults. Your actions set a powerful example.

2. Pursuing Your Passions

Seeing you follow your dreams can inspire your child to chase their own aspirations fearlessly. Whether it’s painting, starting a business, or gardening, your enthusiasm is contagious. It shows them the importance of doing what they love, regardless of obstacles. Children learn that passion fuels purpose. This lesson can shape their career and life choices.

3. Apologizing When You’re Wrong

Admitting mistakes and saying “I’m sorry” teaches children humility and accountability. It shows that everyone, including parents, is a work in progress. This simple act builds trust and respect in your relationship. Children learn that owning up to errors is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a lesson they’ll carry into their interactions with others.

4. Practicing Self-Care

When your child observes you prioritizing your health and well-being, it sends a clear message. It teaches them that taking care of oneself is vital, not selfish. Whether it’s exercising, meditating, or simply relaxing, your self-care habits are a blueprint for them. This creates a healthy mindset that they’ll carry into adulthood. Your example sets the tone for their self-worth.

5. Resolving Conflicts Calmly

Image Source: 123rf.com

Children are always watching how you handle disagreements, whether at home or elsewhere. If you approach conflicts with patience and respect, they’ll likely do the same. This teaches them valuable skills for navigating relationships and challenges. Your behavior becomes their default setting in similar situations. You’re shaping their future interactions.

6. Being Honest, Even When It’s Hard

Honesty can be challenging, but it’s a value that children hold onto when they see it in action. When you tell the truth, even in tough situations, it sets a standard of integrity. This lesson stays with them, guiding their decisions and interactions. Honesty builds trust not only within the family but also in their future relationships. Your truthfulness is a lifelong gift.

7. Expressing Gratitude

Children who see their parents say “thank you” often grow up appreciating life’s blessings. Gratitude fosters happiness and resilience, two essential traits for a fulfilling life. Your expressions of gratitude become their internal dialogue. They’ll learn to focus on what they have rather than what they lack. This mindset can profoundly impact their overall well-being.

Kids Are Watching and Learning From You

You might not realize it, but your child is always watching and learning from you. The moments you think are insignificant could be life-changing for them. As parents, our actions often speak louder than our words. We must make sure what they see and hear is what we’d want for them in life. Remember, we have to demonstrate and encourage them to be the best they can be.

Which of these have you noticed in your family dynamic? Will you make any changes in your parenting after reading this article? Let us know in the comments as we hope to make a difference in your life.

Read More:

9 Important Values to Teach Children

7 Reasons You Shouldn’t Post Pictures of Your Young Children Online

Tamila McDonald
Tamila McDonald

Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.

Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: children’s behavior, family values, impactful moments, Life Lessons, parenting advice

7 Lessons from Kids That’ll Change How You See the World

March 10, 2025 | Leave a Comment

7 Lessons from Kids That’ll Change How You See the World
Image Source: Pexels

Although kids aren’t usually viewed as a source of wisdom, they embody many positive traits that adults may lose along the way. Children often have a more exploratory mindset than adults and approach life with greater curiosity. Observing them can teach us a lot about the world and change how we see things. From childhood imagination to the value of play, here’s what adults can learn from kids. 

1. The Value of Play 

The Value of Play
Image Source: Pexels

For kids, playing isn’t just a fun pastime—it’s a key part of a healthy lifestyle. Games and pretend play contribute to children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Childhood activities like making forts and skipping rocks help kids explore their environment, build confidence and motor skills, learn to solve problems, and more. Hanging out with friends is also crucial, enabling kids to deepen their understanding of language and relationships. 

The value of play is what adults can learn from kids. We tend to view play as a recreational or leisure activity. But it’s important for us to carve out time to play for our own well-being. Activities like rollerblading, coloring, and playing board games relieve stress and boost our creativity. Incorporating play into your routine can help you become a better problem-solver and happier version of yourself. 

2. Enjoy the Little Things

Enjoy the Little Things
Image Source: Pexels

Kids are excited about everything, from a trip to the grocery store with mom to a cool leaf they found on the sidewalk. They approach daily life with a sense of wonder and curiosity that adults usually lose along the way. What adults can learn from kids is how to value the little things. Kids are eager to soak up all the experiences they can and are enthusiastic about seemingly trivial events like show and tell at school. 

Adults usually don’t feel that level of happiness and excitement unless we’re experiencing a big milestone, like taking a trip or getting a promotion. But we can try to increase our capacity for joy by being more mindful and grateful for everyday pleasures, such as our morning cup of coffee or a beautiful sunset. 

3. Love of Reading 

Love of Reading
Image Source: Pexels

For most kids, a bedtime story is a favorite nightly ritual that cannot be missed. Reading to your children is a crucial part of childhood development and fosters curiosity. Once kids start reading themselves, they’re truly off to the races. 

Unfortunately, for many adults, reading often stops once there aren’t assignments required for school. But reading is necessary for professional and personal development. Nonfiction can help you upskill and deepen your knowledge of your industry, while fiction allows you to get lost in a story and relieve built-up stress. 

4. Try New Things

Try New Things
Image Source: Pexels

Kids dive headfirst into new adventures, from trying new foods to visiting unfamiliar places. Studies have shown that kids are more exploratory than adults, which helps them learn new things. Adults are often more closed off to new experiences. 

We may have a hard time leaving our comfort zone due to fear of failure or discomfort. We get stuck in a rut and stick to our familiar routines instead of taking a chance. But as they say, variety is the spice of life! So the next time you have the opportunity to try a hobby or meet new people, approach the experience with an open, curious mindset just like a child would.

5. Importance of Helping Others 

Importance of Helping Others
Image Source: Pexels

What adults can learn from kids is the importance of helping others. Researchers have discovered that kids can be kinder and more willing to help others than adults. Children as young as 14 months old will go out of their way to assist someone who’s struggling, even if they have to pause a favorite activity to do so. 

Kids don’t seem to be as motivated by rewards as adults—they just enjoy being helpful and nice to others. Although adults are often busy with work and family commitments, carrying out a random act of kindness every now and then can improve our emotional and physical health. 

6. Celebrate Accomplishments

Celebrate Accomplishments
Image Source: Pexels

When kids create a new drawing or finish a worksheet, they’re always eager to display it on the fridge proudly. As adults, we’re often afraid to toot our own horn and celebrate our accomplishments. We’re worried about seeming vain, so we downplay our skills and abilities. 

But it’s important to acknowledge your talents and achievements, both big and small. Rewarding or praising yourself for a job well done boosts your self-esteem and motivation, and even helps prevent burnout according to Forbes. So don’t forget to pat yourself on the back the next time you achieve a goal! 

7. Believe in Possibilities 

Believe in Possibilities
Image Source: Pexels

When asked what they want to be when they grow up, young children come up with some pretty wild answers. They believe they can be anything, from YouTubers to superheroes. Along the way, adults lose this sense of possibility and learn to be more realistic. However, dreaming about the future and remaining open to new opportunities is good for our well-being. Envisioning a bright future gives us the hope and motivation we need to pursue our goals. 

What have you learned from your kids? Share your experience in the comments! 

Vicky Monroe headshot
Vicky Monroe

Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance writer who enjoys learning about and discussing the psychology of money. In her free time, she loves to cook and tackle DIY projects.

Filed Under: Growing Up Tagged With: education, Kids, Life Lessons

A Lesson in Humility, Understanding and Forgiveness

October 9, 2011 | Leave a Comment

I used a drunk driver crashing in my yard as lesson for my children

(via Pixabay)

This was absolutely not the post I had planned on writing this week. You see it all started on Saturday morning at around 12:30am. Everyone in our house was sound asleep but I started hearing the annoying beep of our home alarm system. I think I heard it twice — but I really didn’t want to get out of bed to find out what was going on. It was making the type of sound that occurs when it loses power — not like someone breaking in or anything.

Then Payton started barking. Oy! Now I had to get up. I figured she was just barking at a cat or something, so I hushed her and blindly made my way out into what seemed to be an exceptionally dark living room. I got Payton to stop barking but I could see lights moving around outside the window. It freaked me out and suddenly I heard a loud BAM BAM BAM on the door.

As you might imagine that freaked me out even more! I looked out the peephole in the door and saw a bright light shining straight into it. I headed back to the bedroom to get my husband and ran into what felt like — oh, I don’t know — Freddy Kruger or something! I was terrified and I’m pretty sure I screamed but somehow I didn’t wake the boys. Chris ran out and could see there was a police car outside, some of our neighbors and a lot of bricks and other rubbish.

The Drunk Driver

To make a long story short (actually this is going to be a long story, who am I kidding) a drunk driver had apparently hit our mailbox, plowed through the brick work around it, slammed into a powerbox and then hit our neighbor’s mailbox. Of course, it was no fun waking up in the middle of the night or being scared half to death by my husband but I am a pretty positive person, so of course I was looking at the bright side of the situation.

First of all, things could have been so much worse. No one was hurt. The driver and his passenger were not injured and thanks to that powerbox being hit — it saved our neighbor’s cars (and maybe even their house) from being struck. Though we were without power for a little bit, we did get a new powerbox – which I had been wanting anyway – I just didn’t know how to go about getting one. Also, we met some of our neighbors that we hadn’t introduced ourselves to yet — and they were super nice.

Poor Chris spent Saturday cleaning up the mess. We went to Lowe’s to get a mailbox and post and he – along with our neighbor – installed the newest mailboxes in the neighborhood. It was a pain but like I said before, it could have been so much worse — even tragic. Thank God it wasn’t.

Explaining Jail to Kids

The boys asked questions about what had happened and who hit our mailbox and all of that. We explained that someone had made a huge mistake and this was the result. One of them asked if the person responsible was put in jail — and we said “yes” at least for a day or so. Later in the day A asked what jail was – the boys know it’s where “bad guys” go like in their superhero books and things like that but I don’t think we have ever really explained what happens there. Frankly, I think they are too young to know all of that anyway. Chris told them “It’s like a really long time-out for adults.” That seemed to be easy enough for them to understand.

Look, I have done some stupid things in my life, so you aren’t going to see me throwing any stones! When I found out it was a young kid — it made me all the more sympathetic. Sure, I was irritated that it happened but I can’t even begin to imagine what it felt like for that guy to wake-up in a jail cell  first of all and then to realize he was being charged with DUI. My prayer for him was that he would learn from his lapse in judgement and would think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking.

Then, I received a knock on my door the following day at around 4 in the afternoon. Anyone who knows me well knows that when Chris isn’t home I don’t answer the door unless:

1. It’s someone I know.
2. It’s an elderly person or a kid.
3. I think I could take the person in a fight.

I guess my mom was really good about teaching me about not opening the door to strangers. Plus – as  I explained in a previous post – I also watch a bit too much Dateline, which probably makes me a little paranoid as well. However, I answered the door without looking out the window or the peephole (again unheard of for me) and there stood a young man who I was sure was going to sell me on some kind of deal that I just couldn’t resist — but no. He simply stated his name and said he was the one who caused all the damage a couple of nights before. I was pretty shocked and I think he realized that. He asked if I could come out so he could speak to me. I told the boys to wait inside but they stood at the screen door and witnessed the entire conversation.

I’ll call him Walter because that’s the first name that came to my mind and I don’t want to use his real name. So Walter – with a spiral notebook in one hand and pen shaking in the other – sincerely and humbly offered me an apology. He explained that he had come over to see if he could help us clean things up but he noticed that we had already taken care of everything. He offered to pay me for anything we had to pay out of pocket. I thanked him and told him it was okay and we would just deal with the insurance company.

He looked me in the eye when he spoke but his head was slightly bowed. I knew that it took every once of courage for him to come and face my neighbors and I. I also know from experience how hard it is to admit your wrongs and try to make amends to people who know you — but to face complete strangers takes an exceptionally brave individual.

I was so moved by his gesture! The mom in me wanted to scold him and hug him at the same time — but I did neither. Instead, I got a little teary as I told him that it meant a great deal to have him come all the way to our house and apologize. I told him he was lucky that something worse didn’t happen — that he could have been seriously hurt or hurt someone else. I also let him know that I really appreciated him coming over to make things right. I shook his hand and thanked him again. As he walked away – A who had been standing there so quietly with his brother – said “Mom, was that the guy that hit our mailbox?” I told him yes and we went inside to have a talk.

Teaching Kids About Responsibility

I told the boys that sometimes people make mistakes — that Walter had made a big mistake but he was very brave to come and ask for our forgiveness. Walter’s actions may have caused me miss a few hours of my beauty sleep but he gave me a priceless moment to teach my children a valuable lesson. I explained to my boys that if you make a mistake in life, you should face it head on and make amends whenever possible even if you aren’t sure the other person will be willing to forgive you — you have to at least try. I also let them know that when someone wrongs you – especially when they approach you with such sincerity – and asks for your forgiveness, you should give it. I think they understood. I hope they did.

And as for Walter, I wish him all the best and pray that this was his wake up call — a reminder to NEVER to drink and drive.

Have you ever used an unexpected event to teach valuable life lessons to your children?

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Parenting, Random Musings Tagged With: Drunk Driving, Forgiveness, Humility, Life Lessons, Scary Moments, Understanding

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Basic Principles Of Good Parenting

Here some basic principles for good parenting:

  1. What You Do Matters: Your kids are watching you. So, be purposeful about what you want to accomplish.
  2. You Can’t be Too Loving: Don’t replace love with material possessions, lowered expectations or leniency.
  3. Be Involved Your Kids Life: Arrange your priorities to focus on what your kid’s needs. Be there mentally and physically.
  4. Adapt Your Parenting: Children grow quickly, so keep pace with your child’s development.
  5. Establish and Set Rules: The rules you set for children will establish the rules they set for themselves later.  Avoid harsh discipline and be consistent.
  6. Explain Your Decisions: What is obvious to you may not be evident to your child. They don’t have the experience you do.
  7. Be Respectful To Your Child: How you treat your child is how they will treat others.  Be polite, respectful and make an effort to pay attention.
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