Mindfulness of speech and language around children
"You’re not enough!"
Romeo’s father shouted at him, frustration and anger flashing in his eyes.
Romeo sank to the floor, tears welling up. Once again, his efforts had been met with harsh words. From childhood, he had often felt overlooked and deprived of affection. Now, a young teen, little seemed to have changed. Bred to take over his family’s business one day, he felt he was constantly falling short of expectations.
“You’ll never amount to anything!” his father yelled before storming out.
At just 14, Romeo was under immense pressure. He wasn’t the fastest learner, but even small recognition for his successes could have boosted his confidence. Instead, he felt a constant weight pressing on him, leaving him anxious and doubtful.
He began asking himself: Why can’t I be good enough? Will I ever make my father proud? The questions gnawed at him, and soon his school performance and sports participation suffered. Even his friends noticed the change.
“My own father says I’m worthless,” he confided to one friend. “Why does he hate me so much?”
Rumors spread, and soon the school labeled him in a way that deepened his pain. The nickname and constant teasing pushed Romeo to act out, trying to reclaim some sense of control or attention. Yet, the attention he gained came at the cost of becoming someone he didn’t want to be.
The once-optimistic boy had begun to lose his sense of self.
Orator:
Words are powerful.
They can build up or break down. Parents’ words, especially, are seeds planted in the minds of children. Affection, encouragement, and gentle guidance are the water that helps these seeds grow. Harsh words, even in frustration, can leave long-lasting wounds.
Children are naturally curious, energetic, and occasionally clumsy. Mischief and mistakes are part of growing up. Patience, guidance, and loving correction are far more effective than anger or verbal harshness.
Every child is capable of learning and growth. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of finding the right approach—reward-based learning, modeling behavior, or hands-on teaching. Discipline is important, but it should always be paired with care and understanding.
Believing in yourself matters.
If you feel like Romeo, remember: the opinions of others, even parents, do not define your worth. When negative words come your way, speak to yourself with kindness:
- “I am capable.”
- “I have talents and strengths that matter.”
- “I can make my family and myself proud.”
- “I am worthy of love and respect.”
Belief in yourself builds resilience. Support from those who care about you—family, friends, mentors—can help you feel unstoppable. While no one is perfect, everyone can strive to do better, make amends, and nurture strong, healthy relationships.
Remember: you have the power to grow, to heal, and to become someone remarkable. And sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is love yourself, even when others fail to see your worth.
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