Teaching the Virtues: Thankfulness
Raising Kids Who Show Gratitude
By Mary Dixon LeBeau
It was one of those moments that moms live for.
My sons and I were scouring the local mall during our annual back-to-school shopping trip. We had spent hours trying on sneakers, comparing polo shirts, and checking out backpacks. Headed toward our exit, one of my three teenagers suggested I buy them each a cookie at one of the food court kiosks.
I agreed, and each chose a snack. “Thanks, mom,” echoed each son, one after the other, as I paid the cashier.“Now that’s pretty amazing,” she commented as she handed over my change. “I never hear teenagers thanking their moms for anything.”
As we strolled toward the parking lot, I reflected on her words. Now, my boys, ages 18, 15 and 12, are no angels, but they do seem to be grateful for most of the things we give them, from cookies and new clothes to help with college tuition. I basked in that moment, and actually asked myself, “What did I do right?”
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