I would like to share with you some excerpts
from a poem that really hit home. You
may have seen this poem. I understand
that it is found in the administrative offices of many elementary schools
throughout the country. It is entitled,
“A Memorandum from a Child,” and the author is unknown. Our holidays are over and present giving is
just a pleasant memory. But the words
of this poem tell of the most precious gifts we can give to a child. Please read, ponder and enjoy. I thank Mr. Leonard Krivy for bringing this
wonderful piece to my attention.
A Memorandum from a Child
(Excerpts)
Don’t spoil me. I know quite well that I ought not to have all I ask for. I am testing you.
Don’t be afraid to be firm with me. I prefer it. It lets me know where I stand.
Don’t use force with me. It teaches me that power is all that
counts. I will respond more readily to
being led.
Don’t be inconsistent. That confuses me and makes me try harder to
get away with everything that I can.
Don’t make me feel smaller than I am. I will make up for it by behaving like a
“big shot.”
Don’t let my bad habits get me a lot of your
attention. It only encourages me to
continue them.
Don’t correct me in front of people. I’ll take much more notice if you talk quietly
with me in private.
Don’t try to preach to me. You’d be surprised how well I know what is
right and wrong.
Don’t nag.
If you do, I shall have to protect myself by appearing deaf.
Don’t demand explanations for my wrong
behavior. Sometimes I really don’t know
why I did it.
Don’t protect me from consequences. I need to learn
Don’t from experience.ever think that it is
beneath your dignity to apologize to me.
An honest apology makes me feel surprisingly warm toward you.
Don’t worry about the little amount of time
we spend together. It is how we
spend it that counts.
Don’t let my tears arouse your anxiety. Then I will become more afraid. Show me courage.
Don’t forget that I can’t thrive without lots
of understanding and encouragement.
Katie Haig
School Counselor
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