In Japan, mothers insist on achievement and accomplishment as a sign of love and respect. Thus to fail places children in a highly shamed situation.

By loving them for more than their abilities we show our children that they are much more than the sum of their accomplishments.

Your children don't have to fear you to respect you.

What's that strange feeling? Oh, an accomplishment.

Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's a day you've had everything to do and you've done it.

I'm going to insist that a sign be on his door on the 5th floor. He is settled in ICU and our favorite nurse, Susanne, has him tonight.