I'm always struck by how innately curious kids are about the world around us and how engaged and sensitive they are to what is happening .. and how many kids do want to be engaged and do what to make a difference.

My parents always asked me what I thought, listened to my opinions, articulated their diagnoses of our challenges at home and abroad, and shared their ideas for how to build a more equal and prosperous country. I always felt part of their call to serve and part of my father's journey.

It is frustrating, because who wants to grow up and follow their parents?

I just hope I will be as good a mom to my child and, hopefully, children as my mom was to me.

For most young Americans I know, 'serving' in the broadest sense now seems like the only thing to do.

I think that we need women role models everywhere. I think that it's really hard to imagine yourself as something that you don't see.

My grandmother was determined that everyone feel a sense of optimism and opportunity. Marc and I want to make sure we're doing that. This period of our lives is not just a tribute to her, it's inspired by her. And it's for when we have our own children — I want to help make sure we've got a world I want them to live in.