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Graham Seibert's avatar

You say it well!

I raised an American family in Bethesda. Over my impotent objections, the schools, the neighbors, the therapists and the rest of the family dictated the American-style upbringing you describe. The tally:

Eldest living on the streets (diagnosed with ADHD, tactile defensiveness, etc. I suspect it adds up to something on the autism spectrum. Middle child, daughter, unsuccessful in relationships, problem with alcohol, dead at 39 of the vax. Youngest child cut me off 15 years ago, resolutely single feminist at 35.

Now the upside. Three lovely young Eastern European children. The three-year-old is happily unbuttoning my shirt as I type this. They understand the word "no," which they hear with appropriate frequency. They understand bedtime. They get spanked when they need it, and told mom and dad love them all the time. There is no perfect regime for raising kids, but as you say, you did pretty well.

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Yvonne's avatar

I bought your book after reading your article and have recommended it to many. You are a shining light.

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