I have 5 children, ages 18 to 23. Here are 23 things I’ve learned in those 23 years. First, I must consistently impress upon my kids that they are immeasurably valuable for who they are, not for what they do. Their value lies in their person, not in their performance. Second, my children must know that I love them unconditionally—no matter what. Nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate them from my love. Third, I must always, always, speak the truth to my children.  It’s the foundation upon which our relationship is built. Here are the rest of the 23 things I’ve learned in 23 years of parenting.