My sweet seven year old came home from school yesterday a little more solemn than usual. His sober demeanor eventually turned into a seemingly sour attitude. By this point, I was pretty much over his crabbiness that was even evident in his silence. I addressed his current position and told him, “There is no reason for your sour attitude.” After all, we leave for the beach in a few short days. Life is good for him. What gives?
As I watched him attempt to compose himself, the thought of asking him what he may be feeling occurred to me. There ya go, Mom.
“John Henry, is there something bothering you?” I finally engaged him.
His response flowed so effortlessly. A friend had “told a lie about (him).”
“He said I told him to write on the smart board, and I didn’t.” He went on to explain. “He tried to make something he did all my fault.”
I loved on my son and sympathized with him. I told him how I know that hurts.
After bedtime readings, we prayed. I told John Henry we needed to forgive his friend.
“How do I forgive him? What do I do?” He asked.
“You choose to still love him and be his friend.” This was the best way I knew how to explain such a powerful act to a seven year old.
I reinforced with him that it was okay to still feel hurt. But, he couldn’t let that hurt affect his friendship.
What if I had never asked John Henry, “Is there something bothering you?” Perhaps, it was the Spirit’s prompting. No matter what, I’m glad I didn’t just let it go. I’m thankful I engaged my son.
Otherwise, I would have failed to acknowledge that he was hurting.
And, I would have missed a teachable moment on forgiveness.
DustyTakle.com 
Wow …..NOW WHAT IS THAT KIDS NAME?????
I am always missing good moments with my son, cuz I misinterpret his hurt for crankiness. Being a mom is hard!!! Poor John Henry. Glad you listened!
I agree with Judy…..what’s his name….Nan is coming back to OKC SOOOOON! lol j/k
What an awesome little boy, but more so, what an awesome Mom you are Dusty.. Have I told you lately Dusty, just how proud I am of you? You amaze me!
Love you so much
Mom
It must have been in the air yesterday. Kid One went to bed at 11.30 because I dared ask the same question at 9.30. Wow. Being in 6th grade is hard too.
So glad GA is minus one Dusty Takle. 🙂
OK Dusty, we are waiting for his name? Why…..um…..so we can pray for him?!?! =)
Kim, wait until they become teenagers, then they come to you at 11:30 and it turns into 1:30, BUT at least they still come to you and that is a good thing!
I am coming to OKC with Nan next time so I can MEET JH’s friend too lol!
Wish I had learned that principle when my children were growing up. I just expected them to behave. Thankfully God has taught me how to listen and be concerned about feelings. Great job Dusty.