see...I snuggle my 27 mo son to sleep - he's an only, so I have the luxury of doing that
When he protests going to sleep, I'm right there to hold him and remind him what he needs to do.
That's great that you didn't lash out at your son, but held him gently but firmly and instructed him in what to do.
Children who have parents which are changing their mindsets are going to be at sea a bit themselves.
This article explains things in depth a bit better than I can - Crystal is much more articulate than I
It's entitled "I've stopped spanking, now what?"
It really is a big change, for all of you. But it's a change for the better, and your children will indeed rise up and call you blessed.