Suggestions, Mr. President?

Obama's inaugural speech was magnificent. Perhaps he will not usher in an era of socialism resplendent with the trappings of additional debt, perpetual and purposeful unemployment, and burgeoning social services. He asked us, instead, to get up, take personal responsibility, and work. What a concept. Is this the path to fulfill his promise of hope? If America will rise up and follow, there is hope. If the American government models fiscal responsibility, there is hope. If Americans take personal responsibility, there is hope.

What is this hope? A desire to be debt free, economically stable, militarily secure, with liberty and justice for all... of course. What a relief our new president has crowned his presidential debut with the enforcement of the freedom of information act, thereby opening his actions to scrutiny. Responsibility is easier to avoid in a culture of secrecy. Looks like he plans to walk the talk. But how will he get the rest of us to go along?

My kids haven't signed on. During their "rest time" today (Annie refuses to close her eyes to sleep and Jack is too old to nap if we expect to go to bed before the cock crows in the early morning), a car flew from the bunk bed they share out the door and into the hallway, where it struck the wall, exposing the white beneath the yellowish brown paint. I stomped in. I suppose that's not the stance to take if I expect to hear the truth, but stomp I did, complete with a scowl, "Who threw that?"

"Annie threw it," my quick talking son cuts in.

I glared at Annie.

She defended herself with the traditional, "Jack did it."

"You better not be lying to me, Jack," I glared at him.

"No, no! I'm NOT LYING. Annie did it."

Both regarded me with angelic innocence. Not a crack of the facade to reveal the true perpetrator. "Well, don't do it again or I'll take away your toys... and spank you," The first threat was truth. I added the second for the fear factor. You know, like God said, "Don't eat the fruit or I'll toss you out of the garden... and you'll die." Only, they really did die.

I never did figure out whose hand threw that car, but it didn't happen again. Not sure which threat was the obedience motivating factor.

So, how do I teach personal responsibility to my two angels? The comment section is open, Mr. President. Feel free to let me know. I'm sure whatever method you use for the country will work for my kids.