Naturally, everywhere you turn this summer the upcoming presidential election is being discussed.  You read a candidate's name and immediately following you see a list of their “key issues” — a social, economical or environmental passion that they wish to affect. I recently noticed that John and I too (without much campaigning), have each chosen a “key issue” of our own on which to build our parenting platform.  

For John it's all about manners.  He is mostly responsible for our sons being such courteous young men (…at least in public; notice this entry follows “potty talk”!).  And for me, it starts and ends with compassion—compassion for each other; for us; for their family and friends; for people they don't know; and of course for animals—especially our own. Which is why when I caught the boys caring for Jake after his recent hospital stay, it warmed my heart.

Every day, their overflowing love for the world around them grows.  And, although shortly after this photo was taken they had a wrestling match worthy of the WWF, I know they are beginning to understand why compassion is important.  So, if I carry through on my platform promises, I imagine that compassion will become as natural as breathing for my two little constituents.  For now we are blessed that Ty an Wil truly do love each other, and learn by example from the compassion they are shown by those who love them back.  

"Compassion is the ultimate and most meaningful embodiment of emotional maturity.
It is through compassion that a person achieves the highest peak and deepest reach in
his or her search for self-fulfillment."
—Arthur Jersild