When Tyler and Libby were preschoolers, I worked in youth ministry. Two youth were more respectful and responsible than any of their peers. They were self-assured without being cocky and capable. Give them a task and it was completed with excellence – on time. Add in their consistently great attitude and you know why I was impressed.

Intrigued, I cornered their mom at the next church potluck.   Hovering over a pot of her – best I’ve ever eaten – homemade baked beans, I complimented her boys (and beans), and asked what gold nugget advice she‘d offer a new mom.

“When my boys were young, I listed character qualities I wanted them to learn. Every week, I read the list.”

And on the list? You guessed it! Among others, respect for self and others, responsibility, and confidence.