Chapter 1: Parenting is an Act

A photograph never was the person.

A stepping stone is not the journey.

A musical score is not the sound.

There is no magic, only magicians and people's perceptions.

— John Seymour and Joseph O'Connor

The house lights go down. The spotlight goes on. The curtain goes up. You are about to step on stage to star in the most important role of your life: the role of parent. The audience is eagerly awaiting your performance. The toughest critics, your children, are in the front row. You are a little nervous, but you shouldn't be; they want you to succeed.

When the reviews come in, what will they say? Did you play your part comically or dramatically? Were you a hero or a tragic figure? Was your character believable? Were you a success or a flop? There is one thing for certain: this is no dress rehearsal. You have to be ready when you step on stage because your audience will be riveted to every word you say and every move you make. How you act in front of them determines how they will act the rest of their lives.

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