This is an interesting exercise. We are defined in a variety of ways, sometimes as we wish to be and others in ways that are out of our control. But this is my journal and I am writing primarily for myself. And, since perspective is important …

I am a husband, father and grandfather. The life that has flowed from those three roles has been incredibly rewarding and wonderful in ways difficult to describe. The good news … family is remarkably important, endlessly rewarding and just fun, as anyone so blessed will know.

I am a teacher. This role frequently puts me in the company of a group of bright young people excited to be learning about all sorts of new stuff. I tell my students that they are incredibly lucky, that society has decided to allow its best and brightest to wander around in a park learning from a bunch of smart people while they grow into responsible, productive citizens. I do my best to help them get to that place. The truth is … I am as lucky as they are.