January is a time of new beginnings, this January in particular.

Not only do we have a New Year stretched out before us, but we also have a new President in Washington—a president who inspired many young people with a message of hope in challenging times.

When my children were teenagers, I wrote these ABC’s with a shiny hope in my heart, too: that all children might find the best in themselves and others, and that they might share that goodness with the world. The advice offered here is sometimes practical, sometimes fanciful, but always hopeful.

As America embarks on a new journey, I want to remind young people that they are always our shiniest hope, and we need them to give of their best.

If you have an almost-grown child of your own—or if you, like me, may be one yourself—perhaps you will enjoy these ABC’s, too.

Have a wonderful New Year, and thank you again!

A Act as if you know what you’re doing. Most folks assume you do—after while, you will.

B Borrow the troubles of the poor and defenseless at every opportunity. That is how justice finds its way into the world.

C Celebrate every joy, every friend, every kindness—every day.

D Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. After 2,000 years, the Golden Rule still rules.

E Explore the possibilities, but try to keep all your options open until you decide which one is right for you.

F Forgiveness is the most precious commodity in the universe and can be received only as graciously as it is given.

G Go the extra mile. That’s the part of the journey where duty sheds its cocoon and takes wings of gift.

H Hear what cannot be spoken, and you will learn the ways of the heart.

I “I” is a little word on purpose. It is intended for only a little use.

J “Just do it” is a slogan to sell shoes. It does not give you permission to do any stupid, risky thing that pops into your head.

K Kindness received is long remembered—but given, is best forgotten.

L Listening learns more than talking ever will.

M Manners will take you where no amount of money can. “Please” and “thank you” are never out of style.

N Nobody can “make” you feel or do or say anything—without your permission.

O Open hands receive what closed fists cannot hold.

P People should be allowed to experience the consequences of their choices. Otherwise, they will never learn to make better choices.

Q Question your assumptions, your opinions, your sources of information—lest others have cause to.

R Read what makes you think. Big ideas are worth your time.

S Smile at yourself in the mirror every morning. Good. Now hold that position.

T Truth wears many disguises and is often difficult to spot in a crowd, but it is never seen by those whose eyes are closed.

U Understanding is an essential ingredient of compassion, but not of patience, kindness or love.

V Violets are no less beautiful hidden under briars than set out in vases. Beauty is beauty. Wherever you find it, rejoice.

W Wisdom, like rain, is given to everyone. But it causes growth only where seeds are planted.

X X-ray vision belongs only to Superman. You cannot see into the hearts of others, and do not assume you know their intentions.

Y You are a treasured child of the Creator. Take good care of yourself, or you will be called to account why not.

Z Zebras are black and white, not gray. Treasure the differences that distinguish you from the crowd, and leave the blending to less interesting creatures.