"How was your day?" "Fine." "What did you do at school today?" "Nothing." Sound familiar? We expect them to share their thoughts and feelings on our schedule, but it doesn't happen that way. We have to be patient and we have to be available when they are ready to open up. You never know when it is coming. When it does, you'd better stop whatever you're doing and listen, because the opportunity may not come...

I'm doing some rehab for my injured shoulder. One exercise I do is to grab a PVC pipe with both hands. I have to struggle to hold on while my physical therapist jerks the pipe around. Why? It makes my shoulder stronger. We should welcome struggle in everything we do. Not because we like it, but because it makes us stronger. I struggle through disagreements with my wife. If I handle it the right way, it...

Honor them! Whether you're 5 or 50, you should honor your mother and father. How? First, pick up the phone tonight and tell them that you are thankful for the good things they did for you growing up. Second, realize that it's never too late to apologize, or forgive. Third, make it a point to enjoy their company whenever you have the opportunity. Invite them over for dinner and serve them for a change. ...

First, focus on the other person…open your posture, look them in the eyes, give them encouraging nods and acknowledging words. Second, summarize what they are saying. You might say something like, "So, what I hear you saying is such and such." Third, ask open-ended questions. Not questions that solicit just a yes or no answer. And don't use the word "why"... "why can't you…" "why didn't you…" "why aren't...

Sunday is Parent's Day…a day established by Congress for the purpose of "recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children." If you've had a good relationship with your mom and dad, use this day as an opportunity to thank them for one important thing they did to impact your life in a positive way. If your relationship with them has been more difficult, use it as an...

If you're Bethany Hamilton, you get back into the water with your attacker. One October morning, the 13-year-old surfer and her best friend went out to catch a few waves when a 14-foot tiger shark attacked. The vicious shark took her left arm, and nearly her life. Because of the love of her family, her sheer determination and unwavering faith, Bethany overcame all odds to become a champion surfer again. ...

The egg hunts, chocolate bunnies and marshmallow Peeps are iconic symbols of most American Easter celebrations. It's a time when families gather together and feast on the bounty of spring and revel in time spent together. There's fun and frivolity for kids and adults alike. It's a great time of celebration, to be sure. But that's not what Easter's all about. Easter celebrates a priceless gift given in an act...