I've learned the importance of listening.  With so many people talking in this world there's hardly anyone left to listen.  When my children talk to me they need to know that I'm listening.  It lets them know they are loved and that their voice matters.  It gives them a sense of self worth and importance.  Most importantly, I know that if I listen I will learn something.  It's amazing what we can learn by listening to our  children; with their pristine, untainted views of the world.  I had forgotten how to appreciate the sound of the wind blowing softly through the trees until my child reminded me how soothing it was.  Or a somewhat philosophical conversation I had with my six-year-old that was sparked by the sound of a cricket rubbing its back legs together.  If you've never attempted a philosophical conversation with a six-year-old I highly recommend it; you will come out of it with a very fresh perspective.  The extraordinarily inquisitive and innocent nature of children feeds me with new life and makes me a little less cynical, a little more lighthearted and gives me renewed hope in humanity.  I believe in the human race.  I believe that most people have a desire to do good.  But we do need to learn to listen more; we need to listen to the voices of the future, we're going to have to depend on them someday...

Oh, and also dont forget to take time to stop and smell the flowers ;-D