Middle Boy came to me tonight and told me he wanted to talk.  He said he has been thinking this evening about the things he said and he is sorry, very sorry.  He said he was hurtful and mean and that he didn't really mean any of it.

He asked what five things he needed to do to make our lives less stressful.  I came up with only two, but they are all encompassing...be respectful and actually care about what happens to you.  Both are likely beyond his current capabilities and maybe the capabilities he will ever have in life.  I realize I need to adjust my expectations, but I also need him to understand how hurtful he is.

It was a BIG DEAL for him to apologize and recognize that he was out of line.  A REALLY BIG DEAL.

Praises for recognition of behaviors.  It truly is the first step in being able to change them.