Children desperately need to know - and to hear in ways they understand and remember - that they're loved and valued by mom and dad.

A KEY TO BEGIN FORGIVING: Become soft and tender with the person. The first step is to become soft in your mind and spirit. Lower your voice and relax your facial expressions. This reflects honor and humility; and as Proverbs 15:1 suggests, "A gentle answer turns away anger."

Not forgiving somebody is like drinking poison and hoping that the offender will get sick.

How do you show up for your relationships? Are you healthy or crippled? Are you prepared or needy? Are you ready to give or too tired to talk?

Affirming words from moms and dads are like light switches. Speak a word of affirmation at the right moment in a child's life and it's like lighting up a whole roomful of possibilities.

Love is a decision. Not always an easy one.

Children desperately need to know - and to hear in ways they understand and remember - that they're loved and valued by mom and dad.