my dad is the patriarch of our family, so in general, he likes to give commands. Recently, if I asked his advice about something to do with the kids, he says, “Ask them what they prefer.” And I think that’s amazing because he wants to know their opinion and honor it. In doing so, he commands even more respect in their eyes.

I think of our President who has SO MUCH POWER. How incredible would it be if he used it not to go to war but to actively encourage peace? To ask people’s opinions and seriously consider them? How awesome would that be? How much respect would be gained?

But as my ESL Coordinator says, what is on our locus of control? I can control my own responses and seek peace. I cannot control other people’s actions, but I can promote peace by sitting with them and listening. By encouraging them to make good choices and giving positive and negative consequences. But most of all, I want to listen to my dad’s advice and actually seriously consider my kid’s opinions and ideas. Even if I do not agree, I want to make sure I seriously consider their perspectives, and act accordingly.