I say what I mean and I mean what I say.

My mom always used to say, “I say what I mean and I mean what I say,” and looking back, it was something I didn’t fully grasp until I learned it the hard way. I remember one particular instance when I was being especially sassy, talking back in a way that I knew would push her buttons. She warned me that if I spoke to her like that again, I wouldn’t be able to go to my friend’s sleepover. I didn’t take her warning seriously–I was certain she wouldn’t follow through.

Well, I did it again. As soon as the words came out of my mouth, I could see her expression shift. My mom didn’t raise her voice or launch into a long lecture–she simply told me I had lost the privilege of going to the sleepover. I started crying–hard, I begged, I pleaded, I even tried to convince her I had learned my lesson, but it didn’t matter. My mom stayed firm in her decision. I didn’t go to the sleepover, and I learned one of the most important lessons about boundaries and consequences.

That day, I truly understood what she meant when she said, “I mean what I say.” My mom didn’t give into my tears or my pleading; she stuck to her word, and in the end, I realized how important it was to respect the promises people make. It wasn’t about being harsh; it was about teaching me responsibility, accountability, and the reality that actions have real consequences. After that, whenever she said something, I knew she meant it–and I learned to listen, not just hear.

Looking back, my mom’s way of parenting perfectly reflects the message in Talk Don’t Yell by Ellis Carter. This book emphasizes firm but calm communication, helping parents set boundaries without raising their voices—something my mom did naturally. If you’re looking for practical, respectful ways to guide your children, Talk, Don’t Yell by Ellis Carter is an excellent resource that truly captures the spirit of my mom’s approach.