The “upside down” parent, takes everything personally which can destroy the relationships because not everything is a personal attack. To the “upside down” parent, the child's behavior directly reflects their identity as a parent, a human being and ultimately who they are at the core.  There is hope to be turned right side up!

Our culture is consumed with “self”.  The golden rule ‘treat others the way you want to be treated”  applies to the relationship between a parent and child.  When “self” gets in the way it hinders our ability to “treat others the way you want to be treated” because you can't see past your”self. It's so easy for a parent to become patient, however there is always hope. 

All too often we make judgments about other people and even our flesh and blood. Being stuck in unforgiveness carries baggage of resentment, bitterness and blaming.  I venture to say at one point or another we've all been there and done that but it's time to learn something new to strengthen the relationships in your family.

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One of the lies I believed is that I didn't need to “really” read, study and learn what the Bible has to say about life and how to live it. So for many years I lived a good life but not the best life that God had to offer me. With God, it’s never too late to start. 

Conflict is inevitable, hostility is optional!  Angry fights create an environment of stress, worry, anxiety and stress and at its root is selfishness. Learn what it means to be selfless creating an environment that can amicably engage in conflict and at the same time role model healthy relationships in love.

Words have impact, both to build up and tear down. Our thoughts about our loved ones will eventually come out in our words and they can destroy relationships. Asking God for the wisdom to use your words to build healthy relationships is the key to healthy families.

Do you really understand what “love” is? The bible is clear “love” is an action and often we confuse it for a ‘feeling’. As a parent we ‘know’ love needs to be part of our character however, sometimes the guilt we feel when we fall short knowing our actions don’t align with the powerful and all consuming "unconditional love."  There is HOPE.  

Is it difficult for you to show respect to your partner, your child? Are you unhappy with the way the relationship is going? Is it time to lower your guard and align your behaviors and attitudes with your values? If you value respect learn to offer it and be satisfied with yourself!!

Is your way the only Way? Are you open to listen or compromise with your child, your partner, and learn to come to a unifying agreement to agree or disagree. Learn what it means to solve problems with your family members and minimize conflict in your relationships. 

Parenting is all about the prep work before we see the results! Like any goal there is a process of steps that lead to the final accomplishment. A parent must learn to be patient with the process of parenting because laying a solid foundation for your child will take TIME and lots of it.