While I was hanging out in Florida by the nearly empty pool one day, a dad and his 4 girls came in. He organized their things; and the girls, who were all about the same age (between 1st and 5th grades maybe), jumped into the pool. Within about 5 minutes their mom came through the gate, looked at the girls, and said, “Uh, oh – girls, look!” she pointed at a sign by the side of the pool:
this is the sign she was pointing to...
“The sign says—Rule #4 : Happiness Only— We won’t be invited back unless you’re happy. What’s not to like… Florida, sunny, you’re in a pool!! Better remember Rule #4: Happiness Only!!”
As she rounded the pool, she spied another sign and casually remarked – “See, this one says : No Whining!”
I LOVED it!!! I really hadn’t even noticed any misbehaving by the girls, but mom’s super eyes and ears must have known what was in the air. I so much admired the way she handled the kids – all quiet, encouraging and inventive – with a soft, humorous tone. I’m sure those girls knew the sign didn’t really say anything about being happy, but it sure was a great tool to use!
I think we could all use a little more of Rule #4. How about you?
Happiness Only:)
And maybe this could be Rule #5…
Happy Parenting!
D and C
