This week’s Ultimate Transformation Moment focuses on parenting from a position of strength, not fear.
Parents, let us remember that children have unlimited potential. They are like sponges in the sense that they absorb everything around them. They take on your strength, as well as your fears and insecurities.
Historically speaking, we cannot discount the lives that were led by many of our forebears who were enslaved. There was a time that the oppressors would take the strongest male slave and disrespect, beat or torture him in front of all the other slaves–male, female, adults as well as children. This was done in order to strike fear in the hearts of those who might get the idea to run away, turn on, or otherwise confront individuals in control.
An immediate outcome of this brutal display was that the parents, mothers in particular, taught their children never to disobey. Out of their own fear for the safety of their children, they would even punish/beat the child themselves, in order to get this message across. Today, we have a tendency to have a fear of what we think the world will do to our children. Our fear limits how we support, and in this we do our children a disservice.
As parents, as we find ourselves faced with negative influences that cause us to react out of fear. These negative influences may be presented as news: the brutal killing of a Black man by a police officer, or the propensity of young Black youth to be unjustifiably placed in special education classes, instead of being taught. There are constant views of wars, famine and poverty, here and abroad, without a focus on diplomacy, or possible solutions that may turn these dire situations around.
So, the next time you are confronted with one of these negative images, or stories, take a moment to stop. Do not allow yourself to be affected by these outside influences. Place your focus on something positive. Find a positive story for each of the negative ones you are presented with. Do not allow the negative image to overtake you, and cause you to share that negative energy with your children.
Know that greatness is born everyday in every community, and in every child. It is your job to do everything in your power to support them in the full manifestation of their greatness. Remember to see our children’s greatness every moment, support their greatness with your own maximum effort, and never give up on them.
That’s our Ultimate Transformation Moment. Peace and be more.
Erich Nall is the owner and founder of Ultimate Transformations Training in Los Angeles, Calif. He is the author of “21 Days to Ultimate Health and Wellness.” He is also a regular guest and commentator on KJLH 102.3 FM’s the “Front Page” with Dominique DiPrima. Contact him at: www.ultimatetransformations.com.
