Parenting is one of the greatest joys in life, but it can also be the most terrifying. Our children- whether they are biological, adopted or foster children- are like extensions of ourselves in many good ways. When they hurt, we hurt. When they are happy, we are happy. At the end of our lives, we parents want to look back and count on one hand a few good accomplishments. At the top of the list is having raised good people.

But there are many obstacles in our way, and the first is the culture in which we live. It is neither parent friendly nor child friendly. The media influences them in negative ways, classmates can hurt them, and some ill-intentioned adults lurk in the shadows to lure them toward bad things. For us, the world can be a frightening place. That’s why we must learn what to watch out for and how to help our children navigate this tough world. And we can do this. We can help them avoid accumulating scars and, in fact, fare very well. It is my joy to encourage you as you help the children you love so dearly stay on the right, but narrow path.