My kids can apparently be courteous and nice to each other, and may, after all, become civilized people.

The scene: This evening. Skipper is playing in the dining room. Dutch enters the room.

Dutch: Skipper, can I play with you?

Skipper: Yes, you can play with me!

Dutch: Okay, what are you playing?

Skipper: I'm playing baby.

Dutch: Okay!

They play. Nobody screams. Nobody bullies. I make a mental note to remember this moment.