It used to be that I had the answers; it was them coming to me for advice; I was the one with the experience.
And, not to say that's not the case; they still ask for my advice and help from time to time.
But I've noticed it goes the other way more often that it used to.
Just last week, I got quite a lengthy email from Leland, setting forth all of the things we need to accomplish for the Heritage Music BluesFest, which is a "family project," so to speak.
His e-mail - almost more of a directive - was well thought-out, concise ... like he could run the thing if given the chance - with an iron hand, even.
Often, I find myself calling Amanda; she's great at having the right answer or a solution to whatever I may be contemplating, be it a new pair of pants or a logistical dilemma.
As demonstrated by some old scribbled-upon envelopes I found while cleaning my office not too long ago, apparently they've been pretty wise for a while now.
"Things that don't feel like work are what you should be doing for a living."
That one came from Amanda. She believes she was born to do what she does for a living; it's a part of her life and never feels like work.
We could all take a lesson.
And this I scribbled on another envelope some time ago: "If you have something to fall back on, you'll fall back."
That piece of logic came from Leland back when he was thinking about where to go to college.
He had applied to one school, and one school only. The American Academy of Dramatic Arts. An audition was required prior to acceptance. I asked him time and again before that big important day, "What will you do if you don't get in?"
Not getting in was not in his plans. He didn't want something to fall back on. His sights were set. He didn't want to split his 100 percent effort into pieces. AADA deserved 100 percent. And Leland deserved AADA, which he got.
There are certain qualities that take us far in this life. Determination. Drive. Leadership. Commitment. Confidence.
All qualities we can teach our children - and apparently, ones they can teach us, as well.
Phyllis R. Sigal is design editor at The Intelligencer and Wheeling News-Register and designer of Ohio Valley Parent. She is the mom of Amanda, 24, and Leland, 22.
