The document discusses the importance of passing down wisdom to children through idioms and proverbs. The author's parents used sayings like "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink" and "hard head makes for a soft behind" to impart guidance. These teachings helped shape the author's character traits of being strong-willed, persistent, and determined. The document stresses that a parent's actions leave a lifelong legacy on their children and influence how they navigate challenges. Passing down wisdom and strengthening family support can empower children to overcome obstacles.

1. A PARENT'S LEGACY TO YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2017 - #FlashbackFriday
(Mom & Dad at “Melba’s Restaurant in Cleveland Heights, Ohio” circa 1977
Throughout my childhood, both my parents had a wonderful way of giving me instruction
and guidance through their expression of many idioms. As I thought about this subject, I
cannot list all of the “Turner” idioms but some are hilarious, insightful and are spot on to
embrace and live by as you navigate through daily life challenges and triumphs.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines “Idiom”= “ a group of words in a fixed order that have a
particular meaning that is different from the meaning of each word on its own”.
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MY FAVORITE MOM IDIOMS:
Meaning:
You can present someone with an opportunity, but you cannot force him or her to take
advantage of it.
Meaning:
Being stubborn and not listening makes life harder for you than it has to be.
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MY FAVORITE DAD IDIOMS:
A Parent’s Legacy to Your Children and Grandchildren
Cassondra Turner McArthur
“You can lead a horse to the water but you can’t make him drink”
“Hard head makes for a soft behind”
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2. Meaning:
Follow through on your commitments- do what you say you will do.
Meaning:
Trying is better than pure failure
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As I reflect back on my parent’s teachings/influence ., e.g. their “Legacy” on my life, the
following non-exhaustive listing of character traits come to mind: strong-willed,
persistent, enduring, forgiving, entrepreneurs, loving, unity, compassionate, fighters,
determined, hopeful, strong work ethic, smart, resourceful, defiant, perceptive, kindness,
helpful, witty and they loved their children.
God created families to represent Him on earth and to enjoy a range of human
relationships, such as mother, father, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, husband, wife,
children, friends, classmates, work colleagues, neighborhoods, and on and on.
Within these relationships exists a range of human emotions which are varied, wonderful
and yet fragile and complex, the extreme range of human emotions are love and hate.
The Bible states in 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it
does not boast. It is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not
easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with
the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
BE OF GOOD CHEER AND BE AN OVERCOMER!
Having some historical parental positive teachings and/or another positive adult role
model combined with strong biblical /inspirational teachings, really helps to “buffer”
against Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) while strengthening resiliency and
protective factors for a child that lasts throughout a person’s lifespan.
In addition, the power of prayer and forgiveness is essential for inner healing because just
as a physical wound needs to heal, the same goes for emotional and spiritual wounds.
Our LORD JESUS states “these things I have spoken to you, that in ME you may have
peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome
the world”-JOHN 16:33 - NKJV version
I will admit that throughout my 60+ years, I have experienced some crappy life obstacles,
tragedies as well as some wonderful joys & triumphs and I am still here by GOD’s amazing
grace and peace.
And I must admit the peace of mind that comes from GOD is so powerful combined with
my parents’ idioms plus some of my own teachings that I have imparted to my two
children during their childhood.
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CASSI’S IDIOMS:
Meaning:
“If you say you’re going to do something, do it!”
“Nothing beats a failure but a try!”
“COME OUT SWINGING”
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3. To compete or defend someone or something passionately
Meaning:
Move on, forgive and stop dwelling on something that is in the past and cannot be
changed.
Meaning:
If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake
the dust off your feet.
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THE BOTTOM LINE:
It is important to recognize that your actions and behavior as a parent will make lifelong
impressions that will impact your children for decades to come. Your children learn how
to navigate through life challenges from you; therefore, it is essential to teach them how to
look at all aspects of life tragedies & obstacles and to seek & obtain family support/
inspirational services that will empower your children to heal, grow, thrive and be
overcomers!!
ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS IS “YOUR LEGACY” to your children & grand children: YOU
DECIDE!
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82 views · Posted Aug 12
“GET OVER IT!”
“SHAKE THE DUST OFF YOUR FEET!” - MATTHEW 10:14- (Cassi favorite)
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