Mom uses a tube of toothpaste to teach her daughter about to start middle school an important life lesson
Every tiny or great start in a child’s life is a profound moment for parents. It is during these beginnings that they get a chance to renew their expression of love and wisdom for their kids. Whether it is a hopeful remark or a new life lesson, it is offered by the parent with the hope of shaping their kids into growing human beings. Similarly, a mom named Amy Beth Gardner shared a post on Facebook about how her daughter kickstarted middle school with a memorable message. The mom used toothpaste to imbibe an essential value that the girl will carry with her for life.
“My daughter starts middle school tomorrow. We've decorated her locker, bought new uniforms, even surprised her with a new backpack,” the mom remarked. With all the hope and excitement, there was something more to be mindful of. Gardner had a “pre-middle school task that is far more important than the others” for her daughter the night before her first day. The task involved a tube of toothpaste and a plate. To begin with, the mom requested her daughter to squeeze out all the toothpaste from the tube onto the plate. The picture shared in the post revealed a plate with squirted toothpaste on it and an empty tube beside it.
“When she finished, I calmly asked her to put all the toothpaste back in the tube,” Gardner noted. The daughter was confused and said, “But I can't! It won't be like it was before!" The mom patiently listened to her defense and then rendered the most important lesson. "You will remember this plate of toothpaste for the rest of your life. Your words have the power of life or death,” she said. She explained to her daughter, Breonna, that in middle school, she would “have the opportunity to use your words to hurt, demean, slander and wound others.” However, she added, “You are also going to have the opportunity to use your words to heal, encourage, inspire and love others.”
Gardner explained that each time, her daughter would have the choice of what to say. However, no perfection can be attained. “You will occasionally make the wrong choice. I can think of three times this week I have used my own words carelessly and caused harm,” she honestly confessed. However, she mentioned that “just like this toothpaste, once the words leave your mouth, you can't take them back.” She urged her daughter to “use your words carefully.” Also, the mom noted that there will be others who misuse their words, but even then, she must “guard your words.”
“Make the choice every morning that life-giving words will come out of your mouth. Decide tonight that you are going to be a life-giver in middle school,” she remarked. She encouraged her daughter to “be known for your gentleness and compassion.” The mom concluded the task by saying, “Use your life to give life to a world that so desperately needs it. You will never ever regret choosing kindness." Many were moved by the mom’s message. Sue Klemme said, “I have seen how cruel some middle school students can be. Peer pressure is powerful. I hope other parents teach their kids to be compassionate.” Vonita Marshall remarked, “What a simple but perfect example!”