One of my favorite shows is Super Nanny. Not favorite as in I actively watch every new episode--favorite as in when I'm flipping through the channels, I will stop on it. I love watching shows that teach "wild" kids manners and crucial social skills. I like Super Nanny because Jo (the nanny) uses principles that I believe in. She knows that children want attention and freedom, but they also need structure. She teaches parents discipline techniques that don't harm the children, that help them learn lessons, and that aren't too straining on parents.
The other day I was watching and Jo was coaching a dad about discipline. She said something along the lines of "when they say 'discipline with sharpness,' they don't mean you have to be scary. They use the word 'sharp' in the way that it's effective and wisely timed. And after you're done, always show them that you love them, because your love should be the motivation behind changing their behavior, not fear." When I heard this, I thought of one of my favorite quotes:
"The sword can be used to slash or it can be used to merely point."
I've always liked the thought of using the sword as a sort of laser pen rather than a weapon.
Then I came across this scripture in D&C:
"Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou has reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy;" (121:43).
Are you thinking what I'm thinking?
Nanny Jo is a Mormon and she doesn't even know it!
Choose to Cleave.
*Read my first post, "Preface," for more information about Cleaving
