A Prayer Story Part 2

Children are so observant and they do watch everything that we do. I always knew that but to have a real experience that provides confirmation of that exemplifies knowing something in theory and having practical experience in it. Of the difference between academics and real world experience. Until you see your child do or say something that you yourself consider routine, then the opening statement of this post will remain an abstract piece of theory.

 

After having the experience of Nicholas' request for prayer in the car in the prior post, I had another such experience that brought the theory to light. Early one morning while running late to a networking event, I paused so we could once again pray as a family before we left the house. We all held hands and Nicholas started praying. Now for most of the prayer we couldn't make out the words except somewhere in the prayer we heard him say "...... and Mommy and [Jodi]....... Amen".

 

Okay so Daddy got left out of the prayer but I was moved nonetheless. We make it a point to call names when we pray and he was copying that. Truly heart warming and made me glow within as I got my day started.

A Prayer Story Part 1

On a recent Saturday morning, I decided to take Jodi and Nicholas to the park so Mommy could get to sleep in, a rarity nowadays. So after being awaken by the alarm clock (Nicholas), I rounded up the troops and got them showered and dressed. Jodi even allowed me to comb her hair (Like Mommy, she usually gives me the "Watch the Hair" look!). After getting them dressed and preparing breakfast, we started toward the door. Departure was delayed though for a few minutes as Jodi needed a diaper change. Leaving the house is more complex than just jumping in the car.

After getting Jodi a fresh diaper and ensuring that there was no more holdups, we started out again. After strapping both kids in the car seat I jumped behind the wheel and paused just long enough to silently say a quick prayer. You see, it is standard in my household to pray before leaving the house each day. After completing the prayer, I put the car in gear and was about to start driving when I heard "Let us pray Daddy". That was Nicholas. Okay so the words were not as clear. But I definitely made out the words "pray" and "daddy". To emphasize his request, he reached for Jodi's hand and mine and we held hands while I prayed. Aloud this time. At this point I should probably amend an earlier sentence.

It is standard for us to hold hands and pray.

Together.

As a family.

Each day.

Before leaving the house.

A little reflection

I love being a Dad. Said another way, I love being a father. Often times I reflect on the days my kids were born and remember the promises made to each one. I remember promising them the world, being the best father I could be. I was a proud beaming father on each of those three occasions, believing that I could move the world.

Now as the years roll by and I remember those promises made, I wonder if I am living up to them. I don’t have any regrets. But I do want to believe I am making good on those promises and my kids are getting the best father possible. Every once in a while I wonder how good a job I am doing.

I want to believe that I am not just limiting the imperfections, but actually striving for perfection itself.

Recently, I attended an information session for a start up non-profit that I was invited to be a part of and the speaker, as he presented his idea for the mission of the organization, mentioned that kids in general do not understand fully the sacrifices that parents make for them. Not until they become parents themselves.

I am inclined to agree but more importantly I wonder if as a parent I am sacrificing enough. Or if I am sacrificing in the right areas, making the right decisions. Life as a father is now a delicate juggling act because of all the hats I am required to wear. I have to ensure that amidst all the efforts in working and building a business to provide for my children’s needs and then some, I am not neglecting the essence of being a Dad. I would hate to gain the forest and realize that there are no trees in it.

I suppose my questions will be answered once my kids grow up. I know though in my mind now that I appreciate all the sacrifices my Dad made for me.

And it is times like now when I self evaluate, that I reiterate to myself to keep pushing that bar for perfection and maintain that balancing act.

And oh yes, when I look at and think of them, I still think I can move the world!