IN RECENT YEARS I have become reflective about many things. That is a natural part of aging, perhaps initiated by watching members of younger generations as they grow and develop. My six young granddaughters, whose interests and temperaments are already distinctive, provide me with much grist for reflection.

It’s also natural to wish that some youthful family members, or any youngsters with whom you are acquainted, will enjoy what you have enjoyed, whether it be sailing, running, dancing, playing a musical instrument or…growing things. As we know, adults do influence the choices and future paths of young people, especially through their mentoring and example.

But if you live long enough you will realize that exposing children to a variety of avenues (generally a good strategy) does not always result in their interest. Nor should we have an expectation that it always will—or if it doesn’t, that it never will. As they say, God sometimes has other plans.

When my four children were growing up, we had a 40-by-40-foot plot of vegetables and a few fruit trees. I encouraged the little ones to, it’s really!” That memory still makes the whole family smile.