Over the past several months, I have taken advantage of situations that have arisen to teach my children that "appearances can be deceiving." They have learned that plain-looking packages sometimes contain the nicest gifts, and that people who speak, walk, or dress differently than they do are often very warm and friendly.
Recently we drove past a run-down building in our town. The curtains were sagging, the window screens were torn, and the grounds hadn't been cared for. My 6-year-year old daughter noted that the building didn't look very nice on the outside. Then in a serious tone she added, "But Mom, it must be really nice inside."