First, we need to clear the air. Nope, not here to pile on guilt and tell you you're doing it all wrong or deliver 187 quick and easy steps to make everything perfect.

Every parent is aware of shortcomings. I was confident I was going to be the one exception, and I was wrong. I think it will only take each of them one lifetime to get over my shortcomings. Not bad, it could have worse and required two lifetimes.

There will be no trophies or fake Internet points for this inquiry. This is just an opportunity to reflect on your care of the little ones that arrived in your life via birth or serendipity. If they are teenagers, you may have to remember back a few years for some answers.

What is their favorite meal?
How do you laugh together?
How do they feel your care?
How do you bring correction?
What life skills are you teaching?
How do they know your presence?
How do they sense your protection?
How are you present for their hurts?
How do they recognize your provision?
When are they most carefree around you?
How are you preparing them for the future?

What other questions come to mind?

How does this review encourage you for the good work you have invested in your kids?

P.S. If your children are the four-legged kind then the questions apply to dog owners. There are three cat owners this applies to (you know who you are), and for everyone else, the cat believes it is the parent; please forward the inquiry accordingly.