Optimism on steroids

In previous columns, I defined parenthood as an infinite act of optimism. You enter the job with open arms and an open heart, trusting the child you’ve been entrusted with will learn, grow and love under your humble tutelage. Loving one child is optimistic – two, doubly so. Imagine taking responsibility for 20, or maybe 25.

I define that as optimism on steroids.

As a parent, you get to keep the same kids season after season. As soon as you’ve known your own for about a minute and a half, they start to grow on you and you wouldn’t dream of swapping them out for another set. In fact,...