A Student Grows Wise

For those unfamiliar with the National Public Radio series "This I Believe," it's a series of listener authored essays expounding on the things and ideas that the authors hold dear- perspectives and thoughts that inform the authors thinking and action. This week's essay comes from a high school student who's life I have not known, but I find it moving and appreciate her perspective and understanding.

I've often made the argument in print and in front of school colleagues that a primary function of education is to teach and instill empathy. One of the greatest forms of empathy is recognizing and understanding the shortcomings of one's parents. This essay deserves a read.