Cheryl and Tamyra, You both raise this really important point - How do we get through to our children? Especially when they are so isolated from the rest of the developing world and even with people struggling in our own country. My experience with kids is that they really learn on subtle levels. A few years ago we were in Paris walking home at night from a restaurant and we walked around a homeless man who was asleep on the steps of a church. Zoe who was about 11 at the time completely burst into tears. She had seen homeless people in Santa Barbara but never put together where they would sleep at night. That conversation and the fact that we would share leftovers from meals with homeless people, really impacted the kids. It wasn't anything we said but just the fact that they knew we cared and were willing to hold Zoe while she was crying and commiserate with her on how sad it is that anyone has to sleep on the streets.

Howard, the most striking thing about this story is that Ellie asked the question, "What can students today do to make a difference in the world?" I know she's heard you talk about making a difference, but more importantly, she's seen your example. Ellie is an amazing girl, no doubt, but as parents we can follow your example, too so our children will be inspired!