What are the most important actions I can take to be a good role model and teach my son to be courageous, confident, and of high integrity?

–Ivan Parra, USA

Dear Ivan,

The most important actions come in the spontaneous situations of daily living. You can approach it consciously by planning activities with your son where character traits come into play.

It can be a hobby, a sport, or a service project in the local community. What appeals to your son most? Go on a “character adventure” where you both can test out a virtue or two. By doing this with your son, he’ll get to observe you in all manner of conditions.

An especially important action he can witness is your thoughtful and compassionate listening to others. As you two move about on your adventures through life, he will never forget your courage, confidence, and integrity as his father and as Soul.