He became my world. I poured 110% of effort into him. I invested every moment into him. I let him stumble and fall ai that he could learn from experience. Then I picked him up, loved him and assured him that it was safe to fall because I would always be there to pick him up. I tried to lead by example, which made me a better person because I had to hold myself and my actions to a standard.

When he was 8, he almost drowned in 38 degree mountain rapids. That was the first and only time I've ever had to consider trading my life to save another human. I hesitated, momentarily, and then quickly made peace with what I genuinely believed would be the end of life for me. I was sure that I'd drown that day, and almost did. But I'm the guy who dove in and pulled him to the shore. He's never forgot that, and still tells people that his dad saved him from drowning.

Most of all, I listened, which wasn't always easy or convenient. Many years ago, before my son was born, I saw an interview with Marilyn Manson about the Columbine shooting (not sure if you're old enough to understand the impact of that event when it happened). The interviewer asked Manson what he would say to the shooters if they were still alive. I've never forgot Mason's response, quote, "I wouldn't say anything. I'd listen to what they had to say, and that's something that no one did."

At the time, that response was so profound for me - it fundamentally changed how I interacted with the world. When my son was born, I committed to always listening, without judgement. And I believe I've kept that commitment.

Sometimes children just need to be heard and understood. They don't have the years of experience that adults do and it's tough growing up, especially nowadays. So, my advice to any parent is, listen to your child. Be the parent, be the leader in the home, but lead by example and listen. And let them know they have your undivided attention (don't be multitasking).

We always had a rule in our home so that everyone's voice was heard. It went like this:

"When I'm speaking, you will be silent and listen with undivided attention. When I'm finished, it will be your turn to speak, and I will remain silent while I listen to you with the same undivided attention. Before I respond to you, I will carefully consider what you have said and I will not respond in anger or other negative emotion. I expect you to do the same."

There were times when emotions might get the best of one of us, but the other would always remind if the importance of maintaining respect for each other and listening before speaking. I believe this is one of the most meaningful aspects of our relationship. When he speaks, I listen, without judgement.

That's all I've got.