I thought for a moment about my day and enthusiasticially shared the highlights. I then asked him about his day. He ran through a litany of actions he had taken at school to make it a “great day.” Apprehensive in the morning to engage in art class, he said “I did my best in art, and I’ve brought my grade up. I had fun with my friends and feel great about school.”

This middle school aged child is learning and developing the skill of perspective. It’s not what happens to you that determines your happiness, but what you consciously choose to focus on that matters. He consciously made the choice to “make it a great day” by doing his best in school. Even though he struggles in art class, he choose to find something positive to focus on.

Parents are in a unique position to “coach” their children across the developmental life span. Yet, it is when our teachings come back to us that we are reminded of the importance of teaching correct principles and watching them unfold and blossom. When children and adults run with a powerful concept, it truly is inspiring.