If I Had My Child to Raise Over Again

I just got a little book of activity ideas for preschoolers, and the intro has this poem. I remind myself all the time of how fleeting this period of time is, and to enjoy every moment, but it's easy to forget amid all the responsibilities and frustrations. As crazy as having little kids and babies can be, I love it! Sometimes I look at my girls and want to cry because the time is just disappearing too quickly. I think that's why I've been writing so much and posting so many pictures so I can remember not to forget!

If I had my child to raise over again,
I'd fingerpaint more and point the finger less.
I'd do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I would care to know less and know to care more.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I'd run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging and less tugging.
I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd teach less about the love of power, and more about the power of love.
Diane Loomans