JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
A well chosen gift may honor a relationship, but an ungrateful response to a present may wound the giver. Great expectations pinned to a special purchase may lead to disappointment or conflict. To reduce family and personal frustration, parents need to control more than the budget. Will you spend a little more to see delight on the faces of your kids?
Do you just want your kids to be happy? Do you reason that your kids' happiness depends on your happiness? Reality check- your kids are just not that into your marital contentment, your professional fulfillment, your vanity or your troubles.
In reality, kids want to feel safe. Your kids will not feel secure if your behavior changes because you drank too much. Your kids are not going to feel safe, when you run off the road because you fell asleep at the wheel. Your kids will not feel safe, if you lose your temper and throw something across the floor. Your children will not think it fun if you violently grab or push when things do not go your way.
On the other hand, what makes kids feel safe? I would offer that kids feel safe when adults bear the burdens of life without complaint to them. Kids feel safe when the adults in their lives are consistent and reliable. Kids like it when they are not exposed to violence. Kids do just fine when the adults in their lives remain sober and caring.
So, do you really just love to see them smile?
Forget about finding the perfect gift or planning the magical trip. In reality, your kids need to know you will not compromise their safety or health. If you say the season is primarily for children, then show it. Show it through your character and commitment.