Miley Cyrus’ vulgar and obscenely sexualized performance at MTV’s Video Music Awards—in front of more than 10 million viewers, in a program marketed to pre-teens, teens and young adults—has been widely criticized as degrading both the performer and the audience that watched it. But, in reality, the real story is that so much of what was celebrated at the awards ceremony generated little commentary at all, let alone outrage.  

Jesus Christ loved children. Knowing how precious and valued they are, He said: “‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’ And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them and blessed them” (Mark 10:14–16).

When my youngest son was about six years old, he said to me, “Dad, I need a word!” Puzzled, I asked, “What kind of word?” “Well,” he said, “something I can say when things go wrong on the playground or when I get mad.” Amused, I asked, “What do you have in mind?”  To my surprise, he said with feeling, “I don’t care, as long as it sounds like…” then he finished his sentence with a vulgar expletive.

Sometimes, seemingly dull details can be very important. Like bond markets—who notices them? In case you haven’t been watching, big movements are occurring in the bond markets that could have big implications for the U.S. economy, the U.S. government and even the world economy.

I still remember once stopping at Starbucks to enjoy a hazelnut iced macchiato, when something interesting happened. The lady who was in front of me realized at the register that she had forgotten to put her wallet into her purse! In her embarrassment, she apologized and told the cashier that her sister was coming to meet her, and that she would pay for it. Since I was next in line, I took the opportunity to pay for her drink. This simple act of kindness made all the difference to both the woman and the cashier, and provided me an extra shot of motivation for my day!