They say strike when the iron is hot. Once it gets colder, hitting only produces noise. No desired shape takes place. Such wisdom is required in raising a society. There should always be appropriateness in timing & execution of action. Man at any stage (infant or adult) isn't of course heatable. There are however moments when 'hitting', influencing in our case, is smooth & effective. Unless we do the 'heating' with warm relationship or communication first, it can always turn terrible. So it takes greater care & courage to transfer wisdom: "A rod and a reprimand impart wisdom" (Pr 29:15). Have you had a similar situation lately? It is always good to feel the heat more than the hit.