Meaning: Polly Berends, in the quote "The parent is the strongest statement that the child hears regarding what it means to be alive and real. More than what we say or do, the way we are expresses what we think it means to be alive. So the articulate parent is less a telling than a listening individual," highlights the profound impact that parents have on their children's understanding of life and reality. This quote emphasizes the importance of parental behavior and presence as a formative influence on a child's perception of existence.

The quote suggests that a parent's actions and demeanor are more influential than their words in shaping a child's understanding of life. Children internalize and interpret the behaviors and attitudes of their parents, forming the basis of their own beliefs about what it means to be alive and real. This perspective underscores the immense responsibility that parents carry in serving as role models for their children.

Berends also emphasizes the significance of being a "listening individual" as opposed to just a telling one. This implies that parents should not only communicate verbally but also engage in active listening and demonstrate empathy towards their children. By doing so, parents can create a nurturing and supportive environment that allows children to develop their own sense of identity and understanding of life.

The quote also suggests that children are highly perceptive and attuned to the subtle nuances of their parents' behavior. Even when parents are not explicitly teaching or instructing their children, their way of being serves as a powerful example and influence. This underscores the importance of authenticity and self-awareness on the part of parents, as they are constantly being observed and emulated by their children.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the idea that parents are not just individuals who provide guidance and direction to their children, but they also embody a representation of life and reality for their children. The way parents navigate challenges, express emotions, and interact with the world around them shapes their children's understanding of what it means to be alive and real.

In essence, the quote by Polly Berends highlights the profound impact of parental presence and behavior on a child's perception of life and reality. It serves as a reminder to parents of their role as influential figures in their children's lives, and the importance of embodying authenticity, empathy, and active listening in shaping their children's understanding of what it means to be alive and real. By being mindful of their own behaviors and attitudes, parents can create a positive and nurturing environment that fosters their children's growth and development.