Flip Your Fireplace

About a week ago my kids were driving me nuts by fighting with each other. We had a little discussion, and so far it's worked, so I thought I'd share.
I started by talking about Scooby-Doo. (always a good basis for a meaningful discussion) In several episodes someone, usually Daphne, stands by a fireplace. Someone else accidentally pulls a book or pushes a statue and the fireplace spins around, leaving Daphne stuck in another room or secret passageway. Sometimes, as Daphne leaves the room, the ghost or zombie comes in. Our home has a 'fireplace' and so does each person who lives here. Imagine Jesus standing by the fireplace, enjoying our company. Suddenly someone yells at someone else, or plays a mean trick, or uses stuff without asking. The fireplace spins around and Jesus is outside. You could even imagine Satan coming in. We discussed things we could do to flip the fireplace back around, and let Jesus back into our home and our hearts. For the past week, every time one of my kids starts behaving in a way they should not, particularly when they are being contentious, I say "Flip your fireplace". So far it works. They will appologize or take a time out and start over. It's been helpful to me, as well. I try to discipline with my fireplace facing the right way. Anyway, there's my fantastic idea for the week.