It doesn’t matter if it’s within your family, your community, or throughout your state and country, living life until life happens to you is not the way to live. 

But unfortunately, it takes the crazy times to get us to open our eyes.

With my son graduating from high school, it’s only natural to replay life from knowing about the blessed surprise all the way through the arrival of graduation day.

I am not the perfect mother. I make mistakes daily. However, one thing I have tried to instill within my children is respect.

Yet this is a word that is muted in our conversations and our actions. We are quick to complain and point fingers. But what about respect?

Respect is defined as the due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others.

The power of connection begins with respect.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Begin with respect!

Impact in the world is developed by a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or even a small act of kindness.

But all we do is think selfishly about our own desires and lean on what best serves the individual “self”. How does that show respect?

It does not.

If we want to have these tough conversations about right or wrong in our community, we as the parents need to start having these tough conversations at home first.

And this is hard to hear. But someone has to be willing to start the conversation. So as you know, I don’t beat around the bush. I tell it how I see it.

Impact starts at home.

So how can you begin with respect?

1. Ask the tough questions.
2. Listen without judgment.
3. Act out of love.

None of us have all the right answers. But as a family, you can come to understand one another with more clarity and then be able to carry that into your community, state, and country.

The power of connection takes work. And the rewards are beautiful. So what is holding you back?

This isn’t a time to feel guilty, or even feel that you have it all under control.

The power of connection begins with respect.

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!“