Today’s my birthday and I’m now 52 years old! Due to a serious health scare in my late 20’s, I value every year. I’m not shy about my age and am grateful for each day that I’m blessed to be alive.

This year, I have 3 special birthday wishes.

1. I would like to see some sense of statesmanship return to politics. The vitriolic nature of our public debate is not allowing us to solve our problems and deal with the significant issues our democracy faces. How about it Members of Congress, State Legislators and Council Members – reach across the aisle today and be nice.

2. If you are not registered to vote, please do so. I’ve been a broken record on this subject so long that it is ingrained in my being. One of the reasons I take time to teach is so that I can hopefully encourage the next generation to participate and own their government. People, if we don’t like what the government is doing, we can change it. Without voting, you are defaulting on your role in representative government. Please register and vote!

3. I wish the people of the planet will remember that we are all human and that as humans, we should be treated with respect by other humans. This one touches on so many things. How can you help my wish come true today? If you see a crazy driver and you want to yell at them, stop and think what might be causing their behavior. If someone doesn’t deliver on time or gets the order wrong, be nice and correct them gently. For we never know what is going on in another person’s mind. It is likely that your own problems pale in comparison to what they are experiencing. Join me today in respecting others.

Please help make my birthday wishes come true!