Henry's Life Tip #1

I've been thinking about writing a small book of advice for my kids, although I know they won't care about it in the least--that is, until they reach my age or have kids of their own. If I do ever get rolling on that project here's one that qualifies, and can be officially designated as Henry's Life Tip #1.

"Start each day with an act of kindness, and end it with reflection."

Last weekend was Mother's Day. It only comes once a year, but highlights the need for our family to do more for each other. This year Mitchell did the eggs and bacon, and I brought in the Starbucks blueberry scone and latte. It was fun, but more importantly it was unselfish. I'd like to see more of that out of our little clan--especially on school mornings. It can set the tone for the day.

Also, more often these days I find myself thinking about my father who passed away a couple years ago, of the house I grew up in, of the friends I once had, and the dreams left unfulfilled. Realizing that not all dreams come true isn't a bad thing--it prepares you for adulthood. At the same time, 46 year old dads (ok, me) no longer yearn for lofty world-changing goals. These few moments of reflection, often late in the evening, bring these emotions back into perspective. Yes, these are emotions I'm talking about--a feeling of confidence that you can do big things, and that you can make the world a better place.

I'll probably not reach this hoped-for level of accomplishment in my life, but I'll always appreciate the fact that I wanted to, and that I once felt I could do it. And with no regrets in the least.

hbh