By David N. Britt
[email protected]
Serious it is. Encouragement from parents, our children do not accept. Ask I must. Why?
Speaks to me does Yoda wise man from Star Wars, sounding like the voice of my GPS (shocker), so think like him, sometimes I do.
OK, enough with this nonsense: I have a serious question, for which I humbly apologize.
When I was a child (I know, that was many years ago) I used to revel in the praise I would occasionally receive from my parents—especially my dad.
I would bust my hump just for the chance to hear mom or dad say, “good job.” or, “I’m proud of you.”
But, there seems to be a disconnect between now and when I was a kid, and it’s clear times may have changed.
Those of you who are my Facebook friends know how much joy and pride I have in my wife and kids.
(BTW, I’m more than willing to accept more friends, just let me know, you’re a PotomacLocal.com viewer in your friend request and I’ll welcome you.)
Hope, my wife, seems to be able to accept my appreciation of her. But, my kids don’t seem to be able to. They have this, ‘You’re my Dad—you have to say that’ thing going on.
Maybe I’ve been too open and my pride and praise have been too much. I don’t know.
I’ve got three incredible kids, and each of them has talents, abilities and character for which I am justifiably proud, pleased and excited.
Yet, when I try to tell them how proud, pleased and excited I am for and of them, it gets discounted. “You’re my Dad, you have to say that,” they say.
Well, dang it! Yes, I am their Dad. But, I don’t have to say anything!
In fact, I only say something when I feel it’s deserved and/or justified.
So, maybe I’ve screwed up through all these years. Maybe I’ve been too profligate with praise and pride.
What I do know is that I’d absolutely love it if my children would accept my pride in them and praise for them gracefully and not just discount and say, ‘I’m their dad, and I have to say that.’
Help me out here. Am I wrong? If so, how? Please let me know. There’s a comment field right below for you to respond.
Well, that’s my piece, and I don’t know whether I’m stickin’ to it, or not.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
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Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
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What’s in store:
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