Today, as I look around me at people and and their attitudes, I am reminded of myself as a child, picking up on every feeling that was shown to me by the adults around me.  I was profoundly affected by my parents and how they felt about life and the things that happened daily.

I was fortunate, because my parents loved each other and together they loved me and showered me with affection.  Because I am the oldest, I had their undivided attention.  My mother stayed home and my life in many ways was idyllic. Most of the people of the world are not born into this environment, and this is unfair.

Later, my brother was born and little changed for me because there was more than enough love to go around. My world was small and I was protected from many of the negative influences in life.  For all intents and purposes, my life was insulated from the outside world.

My parents were tolerant people and I learned to be tolerant.  They were generous people and I learned to be generous.  These two things alone shaped a lot of the feelings I have today.  My thoughts and feelings were valued and I was free to share them openly. Many have no such luxury.  The fact that we did not struggle financially also had a powerful impact on the way of life I enjoyed.

Growing up, we have no choice in the hand that is dealt to us.  Being born into a family that has the basic necessities, the material things that give physical security is one aspect of quality of life.  But equally important, is the freedom of having the right to think and say what we feel and being valued as a person.

If only each of us were able to express ourselves beginning as little children and share our feelings in a safe place, our world would be more apt to produce a kinder and more accepting society.  Then, maybe, as adults, people would be more open to sharing their feelings and ideas. If this were to happen, perhaps we could have conversations that would build understanding and goodwill just through the sharing of our feelings with one another.