May 4, 2019
This week's topic of discussion is to remember to be kind when communicating with others -whether it's your spouse, your foster kids, your coworkers, anyone you interact with! Everyone has things going on beneath the surface that you may know nothing about.
We need to understand that behind every behavior is a need. That need might be food, or sleep, or understanding, or connection. We need compassion when we are having a hard time, and others need the exact same thing!
Daren Jones, a presenter at this year's Empowered to Connect conference, shared a simple video of a mom who is bottle feeding her baby, stroking his cheek, and looking into his eyes. It's such a simple, but profound image of what we all need, at any age - connection, sustenance, love. So whether you have a baby who is 4 months or 44 years, or anything in between, we are all in need of these things. The way that we communicate those needs will be different, but we need to try our best to communicate better on the talking side, as well as the listening.
We also read this article written by a grandfather who is TBRI trained, and it was another great example of how we should be communicating with our children. We need to stop minimizing, or even trying to disregard children's feelings and experiences, and give them voice and opportunity to share their hearts. Instead of saying "You're ok", ask them "What happened? How do you feel?"
The (Good) Word of the Day
"For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."
1 Corinthians 13:12
We are fully known by God, and we should seek to fully know those around us, especially our kids and our spouses. What is on the surface of a person is not a full reflection of everything that is going on in their hearts and minds. Let us be patient, kind, compassionate, putting aside our egos and fears, and do our best for those around us!
Happy Foster Care Awareness Month to everyone!
We also mentioned the amazing Justin Timberlake meme that shows up every year on May 1st, and it's because of this awesome song, that Chris could not remember.
You're welcome.
We also talked about our friend Mollie Bartholamew, who is a travel agent, and you can connect with her here, for all of your travel needs!
If you want to connect on Social Media:
Jihae Watson on Facebook
Chris Watson on Facebook
Fostering Voices on Instagram
Jihae Watson on Instagram
AND we would LOVE it if you would leave us a review on iTunes! This helps others to find our podcast so we can share these voices from the foster care and adoption community with more people!