My daughter took the time to put a message together for her friends at the bus stop, on the first day of school. She printed them, put them into individual envelopes and handed them out. Lillie forgot the messages originally, so she ran back home to get them.

I’m thankful that she had one left – I carry it with me for a few reasons.

• I am very proud of Lillie for taking the time to put together an encouraging message.

• If Lillie thinks the message makes her “sound like a parent,” it helps to reaffirm that my wife and I are coming close to meeting one of our goals as parents – providing constant encouragement.

• The message helps me to continue providing encouragement to others. A message that goes from parent, to child and back to parent again.

I’m so proud to be Lillie’s father.