Discussion Expectations

  In our discussions, let's be sure that we are all working on the same page by setting up a few guidelines.

1.  Each of us will approach our discussions with prayer and a charitable heart.  That means no judging.  That means trying to see each mother as she can potentially be, as God sees us.  Parenting is such a personal and important issue, it brings with it the potential for hurt feelings and taking offense.  We each need to resolve that we will give people the benefit of the doubt, and will not let our feelings be hurt because we know of the good intent of the women involved.  

2.  All situations are different.  Every child is different, every parent is different.  We can offer ideas, because we have full confidence that he mother herself will be the best judge of whether or not to try our ideas.  When she doesn't try it, we support her judgement.

3.  All ideas are worth considering.  The mothers in our group are varied--mothers of infants to mothers of teenagers, to not mothers yet at all.  Regardless of experience, each of us can come up with ideas that can be helpful and should be respectfully considered.

4.  We are here to both support and to be supported.  Please be sure to fill both roles.

5.  Our children deserve confidentiality and respect.  Let's remember that our children are of divine descent and try to look at them that way as we discuss their upbringing.  Please do not share anything too personal about your children.  We should remember that they have a right to their own privacy as well.  The information shared here is shared with the intent of helping parents help kids.  Let's be sure to use it only for that purpose.

6.  If there are other expectations that I am missing that ought to be mentioned here, please e-mail me, and we'll let them be published as well.