Do you have any family motto's?

{ a repost from the archives ... a remeberance for me as I began planning the new school year}

Last night when talking with one of my children I wanted to have a big old fashion hissy-fit.  Quickly,
words of Elisabeth Elliot's ran fluid in memory.  Words that began to resonate within.  Words that quieted the flare-up that wanted releasing.

Don't train your children to respond to your frantic gestures, rants and threats.

Instead we mothers should be sure to have their attention first before we began to instruct.  I've found with some ... especially my boys, I do best to have them repeat to me what I've just said.  This method for me causes less feelings and emotions to flare.

So mothers lets be sure that we have our children's full attention and speak in a calm normal tone of voice.

Warning mothers:  Say what you mean and mean exactly what you say.  If you don't mean it, then by all means don't say it.


For instances if I tell one of my children this or that will happen if they do this or that.  Then this or that happens.  Be a parent of your word.


In all likelihood the same way our children see and relate to us is the same way they will see and relate to God.  We want to train them to believe that God means what He says and He does what He says.  But it all starts with us, first.


In her book, Donna Otto, shares some of her families "Family Motto's."  This got me to thinking about some of the none negotiables in our household: our family motto's.  I've jotted down a few to share with you and to give you a guide to making some of your own if you don't have any.

These are the non-negotiables.

Ambroise Family Mottos
1.    Golden Rule (treat others the way you want to be treated).2.    No screaming or yelling when speaking.  Try to always speak in a calm and control manner.3.    Do it the first time you are told.4.    Do the next thing (don't spend to much time on thinking about it...just do what you know should be done).5.    Put it back where it belongs when you're finished with it ....6.    No slamming doors (when angry).7.    No crying and/or whining when you can't have your way.8.    {Parents} no whining when instructing your children.  Speak as an adult in a clear manner.9.    Even if you tell the truth there is still the possibility you may be punished.10.  {For the younger children} if you simply must cry because you can't get your way go quietly to your room and cry softly so you can't be heard.  After crying wipe your face and join the family once again.11.  If toys or friends come between the sibling relationship and cause arguments and/or disagreements to the point of siblings are no longer speaking and/or one cries behind the toy, etc.  The toy has to be put away and/or the friend must leave.12.  If you do the crime be prepared to suffer the consequence.13.  Never bear false witness on anyone.  Lying on someone else will always result in harsh punishment.14.  No smacking the lips & rolling the eyes.15.  No back talking, though they are permitted to respectfully voice their opinions.

 Here's something else you may find useful!  This is by Barbara Johnson.  I found this in Donna's book.

I gave you life, but I cannot live it for you.
I can teach you things, but I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions, but I cannot always be there to lead you.
I can allow you freedom, but I cannot account for it.
I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe.
I can teach you right from wrong, but I can't always decide for you.
I can buy you beautiful clothes, but I cannot make you lovely inside.
I can offer you advice, but I cannot accept it for you.
I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you.
I can teach you to be a friend, but I cannot make 
you one.
I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish.
I can teach you respect, but I can't force you to show honor.
I can advise you about friends, but I cannot choose them for you.
I can teach you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure.
I can tell you the facts of life, but I can't build your reputation.
I can tell you about drinking, but I can't say NO for you.
I can warn you about drugs, but I can't prevent you from using them.

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This post is linked to Time-Warp Wives, About A Mom, Our Simple Country Life, and Happy Little Homemaker.