As a kid I went on treasure hunts with my friends. I remember packing a bag the night before an adventure (this was half the fun). The next morning, after we walked about a mile down the road from our neighborhood, that was when we felt true freedom. We were explorers and anything was possible. I'll never forget that feeling.
I went to college, got kicked out (poor grades), joined the Air Force, and then went back to school. Now I'm an engineer. I've always been passionate about teaching but I have yet to find the courage to give up my cushy corporate gig to become a teacher. I'm getting closer though; I can feel it. I think about it more with each passing year.
Things I consider very important and that I try to instill in my young sons:
Honor, integrity, respect, curiosity, and generosity.