Believing in Your Kids When They Mess Up Changes Everything

I couldn’t believe the words that came out of my dad’s mouth. 

I was in high school and had made a really bad decision. When I sat there on the couch awaiting my dad’s words, I was anxious and filled with remorse and embarrassment.

I figured he would drown me with words of reprimand. I deserved it. 

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But, instead, you know what he said?

They were words that filled my soul and changed my life direction:

“Linsey, I am more proud of you than ever because I know you’ll never do that again. I believe in you and love you.”

Are you kidding me?

How did my dad have the wisdom to always know just what to say in those growing up years?

What struck me about his response was his unconditional love for me and belief in me.

Sometimes our own children have had enough regret and reprimanding in their own minds, that what they need is someone to still believe in them. 

Yes, many times they still need consequences, but many times they also need to be shown unconditional love and an undying belief in them.

I will always remember that time my dad stood in the gap for me.

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That time his belief in me built my own belief in myself.

His words reminded me I had another chance. All because my dad spoke words of love, grace, and direction into my vulnerable heart.

Thank you, Dad, for saying just the words I needed to hear that day.

I will always remember how you lifted me up when I needed it most.