"Out there beyond the ideas of right and wrong doing, there is a field. I'll meet you there."

Rumi

We teach our kids to form their own opinions and to be able to take sides on issues. However, when doing this, we need them to know that they do not need to be married to their views. By trying to see both sides of every argument they can avoid the trap of always making judgments and constantly seeing everything as right or wrong. They can then look at situations with compassion and understanding rather than intolerance. And when they have looked at things from all sides they are ready to decide, and when they act on their decision they will act justly and skillfully.

The Value of Service

When I first told my kids that they would be volunteering at an animal rescue mission they thought that I had gone completely mad. They wondered why we would be cleaning animal cages and washing dog dishes for no pay. After the first visit, they could hardly wait for our monthly outing. Kids love to help, but often don't know how. This year, get your children involved in helping out in the community. There are people in nursing homes that would love company or someone to read to them. There are kittens in shelters that need to be played with and cuddled. Be inventive. Once your kids get into the happen of being of service they will likely volunteer all their lives. And they will enrich their own lives and the lives of others.