Thursday, July 30, 2009

Civility

Webster's defines "civility" as a polite act or expression. Have we forgotten this in our day-to-day lives. In our rush...rush...rush...gimme...gimme...gimme world, it's easy to forget the impact that simple politeness can make in the lives of those around us. I'm not advocating a return to a Victorian-style era of politeness, simply do away with the "hard" exterior so many of us have affected to shield ourselves from an ever-growing complex world.

The next generation is always influenced by what goes before them. They emulate our behavior, our ethics, our values. That's where we can all have an impact.

This week, I am writing to Matt and Ryan about being polite in their daily interaction with family and friends. Since they are only five and three, the process is simple. Along with my daughter, Katherine, and her husband Rob, they will be practicing "please", "thank you," and "excuse me." We'll be using monetary rewards to encourage the process. Politeness is a habit and the earlier we learn it, the more it becomes a part of our demeanor.

So today, practice politeness, you'll enjoy the smiles!!

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Welcome

Wisdom is going to be a feel-good blog. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or a concerned adult with an interest in children, this blog is for you. My soon to published book: The Wisdom of Generations will open the door to ideas that will help you become a wisdom guide.

As a grandparent, I know I play a special role in the lives of my grandsons. But, I am a small part in their lives, as every member of our family is a community of mentors and counselors for them.
Fifty years ago, families, including extended families spent more time together. Today, many families struggle with both parents at work and the extended family scattered throughout the country. As a result, the next generation has to survive with an incomplete set of role models on a day-to-day basis.

My upcoming book will show you how to share your wisdom in effective ways with the next generation to create a generation of winners!!

We encourage you to post some of your own wisdom tips on the blog. Together we will all be winners!!!