“Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent. Most talents are to some extent a gift. Good character, by contrast, is not given to us. We have to build it piece by piece by thought, choice, courage and determination.”
– John Luther

I received an email from a friend today stating how much she had enjoyed my children’s company and how well behaved they are. It’s comforting to know that others find my kids well behaved, but most importantly, that people are valuing what is inside my children.

…When I first knew you, I admired your business sense and talent (still do actually) but as I have become older and my priorities have become more clear to me, I most admire you for what you have given of yourself as a mother to assure that the two young lives entrusted to you are raised so that they will have great character and strong values. If I were to say that Savannah and Zach are beautiful children both inside and out, that would sum it up perfectly.

I hope that when other people see my children who are happy and well-adjusted, that I inadvertently promote a more holistic and maybe even a shamanistic approach. An approach that has raised a son who formed a “worm club” to save worms every morning at the bus stop from drying out on the sidewalk. And a daughter, who yesterday carried a bug outside the house instead of squishing it. When I see these actions in my kids, I know they have learned values about life and love that have been built over time. Hopefully, they will go forth as adults to promote healing just by being loving.

Blessed journeys!