-Goal 4: Self-Reflection-Examining our own thoughts, feelings, and, behaviors. Question: Have you ever misbehaved in class? How did you feel about yourself?

-Goal 5: Internalizing Good Advice-Taking to heart advice your child gives to others and following it when he or she needs it. Question: If you were giving good advice to Harold, what would you tell him? Congratulations! By asking above questions, you have just strengthened your child’s character because you have awakened your child’s thoughtful mind and caring heart.

We’ve examined what goals to instill and what questions to ask. Let's find out where to build character by asking above questions in following situations: -Problems with characters on TV -Problems on school bus -Problems in classroom -Problems in neighborhood -Problems at home -Problems in discussion stories

Now, it’s time to take action. If you’re like most busy parents just remember questions and ask them often. Get your children to think and to feel wisely. By using these tools now, you will be building a strong healthy character in your child, and a better society for us all.

I sailed happily along Montana highways (no posted speed limit), smiling to myself, excited to be heading to our new home. In fact, so thrilled was I that I didn't even stop to think that maybe Tom wasn't behind me. What could go wrong?

Well, everything. Unbeknownst to me, truck's axle had broken, leaving Tom and Tara and Thor stranded along road miles behind me. He tried to call me on my cell phone, but so blissful was I that I had, ahem, turned off my phone. They ended up hitching a ride in filthy cab of a junk-hauling pick- up with three other people (hyper dog included) for over an hour to stay at a hotel (hyper dog included) until next day when truck was repaired.

Needless to say, I got an earful when we were all reunited in Missoula. I felt terrible, and yet I couldn't help but laugh at thought of them stranded in Idaho with our out-of-control dog yanking our daughter hither and yon while Tom is calling my cell phone repeatedly. Fortunately, Tom and Tara laughed about it too--eventually.

What did I learn? •It is possible to be mindless and happy at same time. •It is not possible to hear your cell phone when it is turned off. •Be wary of U-Haul's promised "Adventure In Moving"... •Stay connected, stay connected, stay connected. •Sometimes it's better to go slowly, even if you're stuck behind a truck. •Make sure you are married to someone who can laugh with you instead of holding a grudge. •Mindless moments can lead to mindfulness. •Marriage can make you more mindful--especially if you stick with it for twenty years.