Finding hope from our new president, from Dr. Brenda Wade
Barak Obama has brought something refreshing to our nation, and it goes beyond his policies. For the first time in a long while, he has given our nation a profound sense of hope. He has taken things that were polarizing -- Republican and Democrat, man and woman, black and white -- and transformed them into something unifying. Under his leadership, we can again imagine a United States in which our differences are celebrated rather than causing us to be further divided.
We can use the hope he provides to feel inspired and uplifted in our daily lives. Hope is a powerful energy that can be used to shape mentality, health, and even outcome. Use positive thinking to turn negativity and pessimism into a positive energy to create a better life for yourself and your community. Though President Obama may be an inspiration for us all, we still have a lot more work to do.
Inspiration from the new first family, from Dr. Brenda Wade
The Obamas represent a modern family in America today. Not only that, but they are an example of a new kind of dynamic and relationship within the family, as well as the new role of husband and father. The relationship between our new president and his first lady is a true inspiration and example of what it means to be a modern man/husband in today's world. Barak Obama will soon hold the most prominent and powerful office in the United States, yet he is still able to share power within his marriage. In recognizing Michelle as a strong, powerful, and influential woman in her own right, Obama balances the scales in what otherwise might be a self-serving relationship. By doing so, he exemplifies a healthy relationship and the role of a man and husband in the 21st century, what we call a stage three relationship.
President Obama's letter to his children:
This beautiful letter is an example of how parents can express their hopes and dreams for their children. A letter is something a child can go back to and read over and over again to help guide them throughout their childhood.
>> Read the letter
Selected excerpts with Rona Renner's comments:
"...But I also know that it hasn't always been easy for you and Mom, and that as excited as you both are about that new puppy, it doesn't make up for all the time we've been apart."
Acknowledge what you think your children might be dealing with when you haven't been able to be there for them. Let them know you understand their experience and perhaps their sadness or frustration.
"...But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore."
Speak to your children from your heart and let them know how much they mean to you in words and action.
"In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation."
Express your values, hopes, and dreams to your children. Let them know what you care about.
"I hope both of you will take up that work, righting the wrongs that you see and working to give others the chances you've had." "These are the things I want for you-to grow up in a world with no limits on your dreams and no achievements beyond your reach, and to grow into compassionate, committed women who will help build that world."
Encourage their dreams. Maintain high expectations for yourself and your children and stress the importance of service. Make it clear that they can be successful.
About Dr. Brenda Wade
Dr. Wade is the NBC Today Show's Family - Relationship Expert, and regularly appears on shows such as Oprah and Good Morning America. In the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Wade hosts Black Renaissance on the CW network, and is regularly interviewed by multiple news channels on various health issues.
Dr. Wade is both producer and host of the PBS television pledge special Power Choices. She also hosted the nationally-syndicated television program "Can This Marriage Be Saved?" The program was based on the column of the same name which has run in the Ladies Home Journal magazine for over 40 years. The San Francisco Chronicle described Dr. Wade's demeanor on the program as "…always knowledgeable, selectively tough or sympathetic." The Boston Globe stated Dr. Wade's manner on the show mixed with "the magic of television, encouraged [people] to respond…," and that the show had an "odd integrity", not often viewed in a TV talk/relationship program.
Heartline Productions, Inc. was founded by Dr. Wade to produce quality media programs that focus on transforming lives.
Website: http://www.docwade.com
About Rona Renner
Rona Renner, RN has been a nurse for over 40 years, and is temperament specialist and parent educator. She is the Executive Director of Interactive Parenting Media, and the host of Childhood Matters Radio show, Saturdays at 9AM on Green 960AM
