Dave, I love the idea of "a ground swell of compassion/enlightenment" bringing greater understanding, especially through teens. I'll keep you posted!

Tracy, that "self-made" myth really does play into this whole issue. I hadn't thought of that. It reminds me of how a person's greatest weakness is often inextricably tied up in their greatest strength. I guess a society is made up of people, so I shouldn't be surprised. :)

Daisy, that sounds like a great program. Is it a district program, or does it have state or federal ties? Someone just recently told me a bit about the rights of homeless kids in relation to education. I'm interested to find out more. 

Angela, thanks for reminding me (all of us) that ALL people matter, whether they're sober or drunk, or living in an orderly or chaotic fashion. It's so easy for me to be eager to advocate for certain people behaving in certain ways, and to be at a loss when it comes to other people, who I'd just as soon sweep aside. You, and the love you share in very real ways every day, *does* make a difference—to the people who need friendship and to those of us in need of inspiration. 

Mother Shaffer, I'm all in with your philosophy! It's certainly the approach in high-functioning families and workplaces, so more people should give it a try in respect to broader social issues. Maybe we should come up with a slogan and start a movement. :)