Raising Critical Thinkers
October 20, 2015
Raising Critical Thinkers


My girls were singing along to a popular song in the car on our way to dance class.  I was enjoying the upbeat song as well, but also listening carefully to the words.  I waited until the song was over, then I turned down the volume and said cheerily, "Well, actually it depends on WHAT his flaws are and WHAT he was locked away for."  They looked at me.  The lyrics said "if I got locked away, would you still love me the same....if I showed you my flaws would you still love me the same?"

They just stared at me, but I went on.  "I mean, is it a SERIOUS flaw, one that would make life with him difficult or miserable, like, is he an alcoholic or a cheat?  These would not be flaws to accept.  And if he's singing about a metaphorical "locked away," that's one thing, but if he has ever been locked away for anything, run, girls, run!"

"Mom, we weren't listening to the words.""Well, you should, and don't heed the advice.  It's bad advice, overly romantic and will lead you into trouble.  Don't date a guy with a lot of flaws, and don't be a girl with a lot of flaws.  But I know you won't."  In unison, they said "We know, Mom," and I cheerily turned the radio back on.  

Listening to you, Dr. Laura, has helped make me an even more critical thinker.  Hopefully, I am raising daughters who will be too.

Theresa


Posted by Staff at 10:59 AM