"If I had my child to raise again I'd build self-esteem first and the house later. 

I'd finger paint more, and point the finger less.  I would do less correcting and more connecting.  I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.

I would care to know less and know to care more.  I'd take more hikes and fly more kites. 

I'd stop playing serious and seriously play.  I would run through the fields and gaze at more stars. 

I'd do more hugging and less tugging.  I'd see the oak tree in the acorn more often. 

I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.

I'd model less about the love of power and more about the power of love."

Sometimes we spend so much time trying to get where we're going, we too often miss out on where we've been and ignore where we are.  I don't know about you, but my kids are growing up fast and I wonder if I've paid enough attention to the real reasons I work this hard?

Whether or not you are blessed with children of your own, there are important aspects of your life that must be balanced against the drive for success.  This is not to say that you shouldn't strive for excellence-of course, bring everything to the table.  Just remember that success itself may not be enough in the long run-it's the love we share that leads to the fulfillment that makes life worth living. 

Today, you will have the opportunity to pause briefly and make yourself available to someone who needs you and the grace and presence with which you address that opportunity can shape the rest of your day, perhaps the rest of your life.  Be generous with your love, and remember, someone loves you, too.