 |
Special Day Plate, Inspirational |
Perhaps you have a You Are Special plate. If not, run–don’t walk, and get one today! My family’s special plate is red with the words You Are Special Today printed along the rim. Some families have special birthday plates or maybe one similar to mine they made together at a pottery studio. No matter what kind, get one and make it a tradition in your family.
In my family we use our special plate to celebrate birthdays, special occasions such as an anniversary, the salvation of a family member, learning to count to 100, riding a bike with no training wheels–anything special to us. We also use our special plate when a guest eats dinner with us. Everyone else gets a regular plate, our honored person has the special plate.
The plate is more than just an eating utensil. Years ago I incorporated a way to encourage and train my children in the art of honoring others, especially their siblings. We go around the table and honor our special plate person. Each person looks right into the special person’s eyes, and shares how much they love, respect, honor, and value them. Some examples of my children:
“Daniel, you are special because you talk to me in our bedroom each night. I love you.”
“Alexis, you are special to me. You are a big sister who helps me with craft projects. I love you.”
Or to a guest whom the kids barely know but have heard about prior to their visit they may say, “Sharon, you are special to me because you have influenced my mom. She has learned speaking skills from you.”
The real blessing of the special plate is the freedom it has given my children to express the value of another by saying I love you and recalling strengths openly. By incorporating this simple plate into our meal time, they are comfortable openly communicating compliments while recognizing one another’s unique abilities.
Many adults struggle with being able to express themselves in this manner and I am grateful for having learned from mentors the power of the special plate.
“Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect for each another.” (Romans 12:10 GWT)
About Rhonda Ellis
Rhonda Ellis is a wife of 29 years, a homeschooling mom to 6, a blogger, writer, speaker. Her passion is mentoring women in ways that impact hearts and homes for Christ. Grab a cup of coffee or a Diet Coke (water is allowed these days too) and be a "back porch" friend with her.Come read her blog at cultivatingahome.com. It's a great place to laugh, cry, share friendships and transparent hearts while sharing deep conversations about our journey with the Lord. You can also join her facebook page: www.facebook.com/TheRhondaEllis
- Web |
- More Posts(30)
