Time-out

"One who is quick-tempered acts foolishly. ..." (Proverbs 14:17)

Greg was unhappy about something and was letting the family know about it, loud and long. Finally, with all the wisdom of a three-year-old, Ashlie said, "Daddy, you need a time-out."

Greg recognized the wisdom of the suggestion and walked out to the garage for some quiet time ... or maybe to prevent an explosion.

Since that day, I’ve often thought of that little scene. Greg isn’t the only one who speaks before thinking. Countless times I’ve been in situations, or observed situations, where a few moments spent alone to simmer down could have prevented a disaster of major proportions. It’s so easy to shoot from the lip.

In this day and age of frequent divorce, innumerable lawsuits, gang wars, international disputes, and terror, I wonder how many of those conflicts could have been defused if the combative parties had each taken a time-out? I’m sure it would have saved a few tears in my own life and saved me many an apology.

I wonder, too, if as she grows up, Ashlie will remember the wise advice she gave her dad and follow it herself. I can only pray that she will. At least I’m sure that when she has children of her own, the time-out formula will be the family rule.

Beyond the Door 
1. "Shooting from the lip." Ah, what an apt phrase to describe those times when we "talk first, think later." We’ve all done that. Recall a time (just to yourself, if you wish) when you may have "shot from the lip."

2. Recall a time when you were "the shot-ee." Thank goodness there is forgiveness ... for all situations.

3. Do you or your family have any rules like "Count to 10 first," "Time-out," "Use your inside voice," that could help you and others "think first, talk later"?

4. Was there a time in your family, or among your friends, where a child helped "save the day," as Ashlie did above? Think about it and smile!