My grandchildren's world.

• Author: Rock, Robert H.
• Position: LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN - Column

For 25 years 1 have delivered a "Thanksgiving Day Address" to my family and friends who gather at my home on this special American holiday that glorifies our nation as a land of opportunity, of sharing, of plenty. This year my Thanksgiving address focused on the world my granddaughters were born into. With the births of Francesca and Madeleine, 2014 was a pivotal year for the Rock family. Will it be ;pivotal one, perhaps a turning point, or even an inflection point, for the world? 111,

In general, Francie and Maddy are coming into an unsettled world. I highlighted some of the "bright patches" as well as some of the "dark clouds" that are swirling around our planet. The former include a recovering U.S. economy, energy independence, heightened inclusion, greater tolerance, scientific breakthroughs, increasing life expectancy, and more opportunities for women. The latter include terrorism (notably ISIS), Russian aggression, global warming, Ebola outbreak, cyber warfare, government gridlock, and income inequality.

As Francie and Maddy grow up they will need to make choices. I offered them some suggestions:

* Always a good place to begin is with the "Golden Rule": "Treat others as you would want them to treat you."

* Marry the right person, someone who can grow with you. The choice of a lifelong partner is the most important decision you will make. Their parents and grandparents made the right decisions, and their lives were infinitely improved.

* Get a great education.

* Embrace change: test new ideas, try new things, go to new places.

* Take...