Susan and I were driving our daughter, Emily, to college.  Questions invaded my mind… “Did I prepare her?” “What did I miss?” “What else do I need to tell her?”  I realized that it didn’t make sense to try to squeeze a bunch of lectures and life lessons in at the eleventh hour.  I had purposefully prepared her for this since she was a little girl.  Here are four things I taught her and always want her to remember...

It seems like we’re surrounded by a lot of bad news lately. An unstable world economy… natural disasters… high unemployment. In the midst of so much uncertainty, where is your trust? In the government? Your bank account? Your property and possessions? Sometimes the circumstances we face can seem overwhelming. But relying on material things is not the answer. The things of the world won’t provide stability and...

In marriage, it’s wise to think first…then think again…and then say what’s on your mind.  For example, your spouse forgets to take out the trash for the hundredth time, or leaves the garage door open after you’ve asked them to close it when they get home.  Well, before you let them have it…wait. Think about what you’re going to say and how you’re going to say it.  The goal should be to help your spouse understand...

When someone gives you an unexpected compliment, it can make your day.  So, why not do the same for your kids?  Observe the little things they do every day and let them know they’re appreciated.  For example, compliment your child’s character.  In today’s world, they need all the encouragement they can get.  Point out their integrity, dependability, or loyalty.  Second, let your child know you’re happy to have...

When you were dating your wife, you were captivated by her beauty, her charm, and the way she looked at you.  You couldn’t believe she was your girlfriend.  All these things inspired you to be a better boyfriend. But she needs to know that you still find her as captivating as ever.  If your wife is captivating, tell her.  First, don’t take her for granted.  Find a way to say “I love you” every day even if it’s...

Remember dating your husband? You couldn’t sleep…you couldn’t eat…you couldn’t wait for him to call.  It was reflected in the way you acted.  Let him know you are still his girlfriend.  First, remember what attracted your husband to you.  Watch sports with him.  Make him a special dinner.  Take time to do those things again.  Second, be excited to see him.  Enjoy just being in the same room with him.  When you...

Recently, my daughters surprised me with something very unexpected…a new wardrobe!  They told me to toss out my old cargo shorts and replace them with new clothes that would keep them from being embarrassed in public.  We all laughed at my out of style clothes and I’m glad I took their advice to get rid of those old ones. But it got me thinking about other ways I can take advice from my kids.  Could they help me...