What I Want to Say:
No.
We’ve been over this before.
We’re done here.
I’m not having this conversation.
Because I said so.
I am the parent. You are the child.
This is not up for discussion.
What I Will Say:
This is so important to you.
I really want to hear you on this.
I’m so glad we can talk about hard things.
It’s important to me to listen closely.
This is a tough one.
I really want to be supportive of the things you want to do.
I wonder how we will resolve this.
the dirigible plum 
Inside thoughts and out loud spoken words, what a difference. You know your child, so you know what will yield the best results. But don’t you wish you could just end it with the thoughts swirling in your mind?
Such an honest and beautiful poem. I can really relate.
Does it take a lot for you to transition this way with your child? I don’t have children and I often wondered if there is difficulty with the way you interact with your own. I imagine at times it would be trying. Enjoyed reading your poem.
I do both because sometimes we are NOT having the conversation again.
“I wonder how we will resolve this.” Love this one!
It seems easier to say the first part, but I think the second is more effective. I like your format.
Love that “we” at the end – that’s how both of you win.
I admire the way you choose to talk with your son because that struggle to listen and empathize is so real.
You are definitely a way better mom than I am!!! Wow!
This is such a familiar conversation…actually a current one too! Hang in there, mom!