I took my dog for a walk. She is strong. When she saw another dog, she pulled me down because I was on a slick sidewalk and she was determined to get to another dog. I sat down and did not get up until the other dog was in the distance. I was not hurt. I was somewhat embarrassed.
Then I thought, why should I be embarrassed? There are times when I am not physically knocked down but emotionally knocked down. I do not feel like doing what needs to get done. Even writing, which I enjoy seems like a chore.
I did get up after I was pulled down, when I thought it was best to try. I had to be determined, like my dog was. This kind of determination and focus is needed when dealing with children. It is easy to lose focus on what is important when we are pulled in every direction and my even be pulled down.
The most important aspect of this lesson is that I did not want my kids to get the idea that it is okay to stay put and not try because you might be embarrassed. Also, they need to know that Mom and Dads get pulled down and make mistakes, too.