Investing in the Future

It is surreal to think about your baby or young child turning 16 or 17 and starting to plan the journey into young adulthood. Right now the days (and nights!) feel long and tiresome . . . feedings, walks, baths, play dates, tantrums, potty training, bedtime stories, soccer games. But it is true that childhood goes by in the blink of an eye. The days may go by slowly but the years go by quickly. Before you know it first steps across the living room turn into first steps out the door.

Setting an intention now to recognize and capture your child's special gifts will help you see past the daily responsibilities of parenting and appreciate the privilege of witnessing a new life "come to light." Filling out the Follow Your Light journal each year is a big commitment, but it is one that will pay tremendous dividends, enriching your relationship with your child, deepening your understanding of his or her authentic self, and, most importantly, building a foundation of insight upon which your future teen can build a life of meaning for both self and for others.

Catching your child's light throughout the next several years will be enjoyable for both of you, and it is also an investment in the future we all share. I can't wait to see how today's little fireflies light up the world tomorrow!