Lately I've become aware of a bad habit of mine because it is being reflected in my children.
It's making excuses.
I excuse my crabbiness toward my family by saying: "My back hurts."
I excuse my lateness to an appointment by saying: "My children were naughty."
I excuse the cold shoulder I gave to my husband by saying: "Little people have been hanging on me all day."
I realize that all of these things are true, but are they good reasons for mistreating the people I love most? Often if we correct the issues with a little more foresight there is no need to make excuses.
I could take a pain reliever for my back.
I could take the time to prepare better for my appointment leaving a little extra time for "naughty children."
I could read the toddler and baby a story and play with them and they might not hang on me so much--leaving a little more for my hubby.
Sometimes I fail though even with preparation. What should I do then? Instead of excuses I could simply admit that I was wrong.
"I'm sorry I snapped at you."
"I'm sorry I'm late."
"Yes dear--I have time for you."
It's really not that hard, but just like the habit of making excuses wasn't born overnight--neither will the habit of being honest, and admitting the truth. It will take a conscious effort and a lot of help from above.
