"Children Learn What They Live"

This is a short poem that I came across while looking around online. It really sets the stage for me about the impact that a teacher, or any adult, can have on children and their lives. Hope it helps you to also realize the potential impact your words can have on a child, if you haven't already:

"If a child lives with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, they learn to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, they learn to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance, they learn to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If a child lives with praise, they learn to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness, they learn justice.
If a child lives with security, they learn to have faith.
If a child lives with approval, they learn to like themselves.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,they learn to find love in the world."
~Author unknown