Dorothy Law Nolte, whose poem crafted on deadline for a Torrance (Los Angeles County) newspaper in 1954 became — without her knowledge — a child-rearing anthem.
If children live with criticism,
they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility,
they learn to fight.
If children live with fear,
they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity,
they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with ridicule,
they learn to feel shy.
If children live with jealousy,
they learn to feel envy.
If children live with shame,
they learn to feel guilty.
If children live with encouragement,
they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance,
they learn patience.
Read more: 12 Ways to Mess Up Your Kids
