Perspective

I’m sitting alone in my family room. Everyone has gone to bed and I’m thinking about life. If you’re young, don’t wait until you’re older like me to think about things like this. If you’re older, I bet you’re feeling like me.

My wife is asleep. My sister-in-law, visiting from out state, just went to bed. And, my son said goodnight awhile ago so he could hang out with his high school friend. Oh, and my trusty dog is passed out with a sparkling Christmas tree creating a special vibe in our living room.

There is a tinge of loneliness, I admit. Nostalgia, too. I just heard big laughter from below as my son and his friend connect to each other online. At the same, happiness, because I know the depth of my son’s relationship with his parents and friends.

The point? As I’ve become older, I look back and think about missed opportunities as well as opportunities seized. Fortunately, I can look back and say that I seized more than missed.

At the same time, dads, if there was one thing I would say to you is don’t miss out. Be PRESENT!

Perspective from a dad of an adult, your time with your child will go faster than you expect. I know, cliche! I know, older guy…blah, blah, blah.

Young dads, your dreams, your life expectations, your career, really will fade to the background as your child becomes older.

And, you WILL reach my age and look back, like me, and ask yourself, “What more could I have done?”

Provide, yes! But, more than anything be present for your child. My son doesn’t look at me as successful…he looks at me as Dad.

And, there will be a time, when I am not around, when he will ( I Hope, I pray) look at his child and dig deep with him/her and be present.

My perspective as an older dad, the connections you make with your child will be your legacy in future generations.

I’d like to think I was successful more than I failed as a dad.

I guess I’m asking you think about your legacy and ask yourself, “What is my legacy?”

What are you doing today for generations in you family?

Perspective…be present and love more than anything else. It really is the only thing thing that passes on…and on..and on.

Thanks Pops!