Lessons from My Daughter’s Words

 By Stephen C. Schultz

Some stories stick with you because they’re beautifully written, but others stay because they make you think differently about life. My daughter Amanda has done both in her contributions to The Interpreted Rock. From a fresh twist on a classic fairy tale in Perfectly Wicked, to an insightful look at why bullies shouldn’t get all the attention, to a powerful reflection on Mental Toughness, her words are equal parts wisdom, warmth, and challenge. You’ll laugh, nod, and maybe see the world a little differently. Come read, and be inspired.

As I was reading through my blog the other day, I came across a few articles connected to Amanda. She’s one of those rare souls who’s always seemed older than her years — you know the kind. Driven yet kind, understanding yet grounded, with a quiet maturity that seems to “get it,” whatever it happens to be.

As a child, she was both a strong student and a dedicated athlete. She was popular, but never boastful — always humble, always caring. Now, as a grown woman, she is a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a skilled nurse. She has thrived in the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit, caring for premature babies and their families with a rare blend of competence and compassion.

I want to share three of the most-read articles connected to her voice and spirit. Two are guest posts she graciously wrote for me, and the third is one I wrote myself of an experience she shared that happened in School:

• Perfectly Wicked – A new take on an old fairy tale that flips the script on how we see “good” and “bad.”

• Why Should Bullies Get All of the Attention? – A thoughtful challenge to the way we focus on negative behavior, and how we can shift that energy toward positive change.

• Mental Toughness — How Important Is It? – A practical and inspiring look at the grit needed to face life’s challenges.

These pieces are more than just stories — they are evergreen content. That means their message doesn’t fade with time. Whether you read them today, next year, or a decade from now, the ideas will still matter. Evergreen content is like a Douglas Fir Tree: it grows, offers shade, and provides value year after year. It’s the kind of writing that continues to serve readers long after it’s first published.

That’s why I’m proud to share Amanda’s words and sentiment with you. They stand as reminders of the lessons, encouragement, and wisdom that last far longer than any trending topic.