Lately, I've been finding solace in listening to voices that are compassionate, wise and thoughtful.

When we act in ways that bring hope and inspiration to others, we feel more vital and alive. This is a power that we each have within us. And maintaining a compassionate stance of curiosity, generosity and humility is the way we claim that power.

Here's to a new year that's filled with meaning, purpose and contentment. And living a year that is yours to write.

When we choose to see one another through the lens of compassion, curiosity and generosity, we benefit from a deeper appreciation of what unites us. It also speaks to our collective responsibility to one another.

Over the years, my experience in working with hundreds of families has convinced me that there is strength and beauty to be found in community. When we learn and grow together, we find strength within ourselves and within those around us. We see our humanity reflected back to us by the people we share experiences with.

We place such a high value on the commitment that our parent-coaches make to their children, that we start the year by focusing on empowering them. To kick things off this Saturday, we'll be conducting the first of our three Empowered Parenting Workshop days for the year. The line-up of topics includes a parent-friendly primer on developmental neuroscience to support your child's learning, strengthening your relationship with your child through connection and an exploration of how to help your child grow into a healthy, responsible individual through the lens of discipline.

We each of us draw strength from others and this past year has borne out the power of what happens when we know that we truly belong to a community that sees us, hears us and understands us. The simple fact is, we thrive when we feel connected to one another.

I went to an all-girls’ school for 9 years and loved knowing that we girls could do anything we set our minds to. Yet I can’t help feeling uneasy that my parents believed I needed to be separated from boys to be freed from the limitations of gender stereotypes.