Kirk Watson: “the most sacred institution of our society is that of the family. And within the family, its most precious asset, and…”

“the most sacred institution of our society is that of the family. And within the family, its most precious asset, and that is its children. I stand before you today asking that my colleagues support me in establishing a National Children and Families Day. President Bush has stated that, ``Families instill in our children values; they shape character and are the foundation of a hopeful society.'' These are the goals for which we strive on National Children and Families Day. It is the intent of the National Children and Families Day to emphasize the importance of loving and stable relationships between parents, communities and children. I once heard a teacher ask her class, What is the greatest Nation in the world? As the students muttered the names of countries worldwide, she pointed to her head and said, Imagination. Through National Children and Families Day, I wish to cultivate and encourage the active imaginations of children, for we know that from creative and innovative thinking comes the ability to hope and dream for a brighter future. Creating an environment that instills important values and builds strong character and provides sound education for our children is a vital national priority. With a firm foundation, children will be better able to face the challenges of the future. As a legislator, I often find myself thinking of the countless children I represent whom I view as future voting constituents.”