Screams of terror "I want momma!" What would cause such a thing for the newly 5 year old while playing outside with his brother and a friend?
The Neighborhood Watch sign.
Yep. He just noticed it. Why the terror? That sign means a robber is coming. A quick explanation of what the sign actually means calmed the terror, but he's still a bit worried about a robber coming.
More tears at bedtime. Big brother has a friend over and is being allowed to stay up late. It sure is tough to be the younger sibling. You just want to be part of all the action. What a concept. This often sticks with us as adults. We still want to be a part of something fun and/or meaningful. Typically we don't shed tears when it doesn't work the way we want, but we still feel those negative feelings. We still feel a bit left out. Sometimes we get so caught up in what we aren't a part of that it takes over the greatness of what should be our focus. Sometimes we become so bitter that that is where we place our entire focus. It's no fun to feel excluded, but the negative self-talk must end! Our worth is not defined by who includes us or what groups and activities we are a part of.
On the other side of this, do you intentionally exclude people? Stop it! You might learn something or gain a new friend if you take the time to ask someone just a few questions. There just might be something that bonds you. You'll never know if you're only focused on your elite few. What do you think? Is it possible to have too many friends? I don't think so. Surely, it's a positive thing to get to know, really know, more people that you come in contact with on a regular basis. Surely you are put in their path for a reason.
