This summer as our family traveled in our RV on vacation, my husband and I listened to Tony Dungy’s book, “Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life” on CD. While I am not a huge football fan, it was somewhat surprising to me how much I enjoyed this book. In this inspiring memoir Tony Dungy tells the story of a life lived for God and family—and challenges us all to redefine our ideas of what it means to succeed.
Mr. Dungy shares quite a collection of quotes throughout the book and I wanted to share with you a few that touched my heart. I love the message these inspire in me and I can see how incorporating these in my life could impact the way I deal with my children and help influence their outlook on life.
“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” Booker T. Washington
I love this quote and often will have it written on my message board in our kitchen.
“What are you going to do to make the situation better?” Dr. Wil Dungy
I especially love this one – and this is a great question to throw back at your children when they come to you with a problem or even a grip! See, by showing your child that they have some control in a situation you are empowering them, we all have choices in how we handle situations and this question is a simple one that gets us thinking.
“The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” I Samuel 16:7
A great reminder about not judging outwardly – so often we find ourselves doing just that.
“Champions are champions not because they do anything extraordinary but because they do the ordinary things better than anyone else.” Chuck Noll
Do you struggle with trying to encourage your child to do their best or give it their all? I reference this quote often and help my kids realize that they could certainly get by in life by just doing “enough”, but how much better is it to give it your all? A great dinner conversation for sure.
“It’s always easier to do things the wrong way, but it’s always best to do them the right way.” CleoMae Dungy
If you have small children, this one is probably one you are struggling with, at least I did. Helping children realize that it is often easier to do something when you do not do it right, but you may in fact be spending more time on something when you have to fix it or re-do it. This if I remember correctly is Mr. Dungy’s grandmother, she was one smart lady if you ask me!
“When you can do the common things of life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world.” George Washington Carver
What more do I need to say? All of these quotes come together to focus on us doing our best, the first time around and giving something all that we have. Isn’t this what we long to develop in our children? Characteristics where they take pride and ownership in their work, life and choices?
Print out these quotes and save them for when you need to encourage each other. Bring them up around the dinner table and see the conversation that develops from discussing what they mean to each person. You will probably be there long after everyone has finished eating – and that is the best part!
Do you have other quotes that you have found helpful to use in your home?
