7. Whatever anyone else does, courtesy never goes out of fashion—and parents almost always help themselves by being courteous.
What do we tell our children about the courtesy they should use, even toward peers they are angry with?
Wouldn't those lessons be worth our study as well?
Someone needs to be the hero first, and that someone could be you.
Think back on the heroic things you've already done to save someone's one and only childhood. The time you bit your lip so a child wouldn't have to hear something negative about her other parent. The time you defended your co-parent to your child.
These little acts of protecting a child's heart are pure heroism. Honor yourself for these—and build on them by making courtesy the consistent theme of your relationship with your co-parent.
Show Extra Tip- Remember that your children are already suffering due to the family's circumstances. Then ask yourself whether you think discourtesy between their parents should be added to their burdens.
- Think about all the hurt your children won't have to carry because of the courtesy you will be using.
- Always remember that your relationship with your co-parent is your children's most powerful lesson in how adults solve problems.
"Courtesy is the one passport that will be accepted without question in every land, in every office, in every home, in every heart in the world."
—George D. Powers