Week 4
I will mix in some dad stuff with some husband stuff. Since you are a husband and a dad, it isn't always easy to distinguish between the two. There are some good husbands who aren't the greatest of fathers. And plenty of good fathers who don't know the first thing about being a husband. As we are both, our goal should be to grow in both areas.I have this little book, Father to Son: Life Lessons on Raising Boys. In the beginning, there are five keys. Let's start with the first: "Be Around."
Am I always around? Not always. My day job isn't overly demanding - usually can get home by the time Matthew gets off the bus. But during coaching season, that time away can be taxing at times. It makes life tougher for Whitney, but probably also for the kids. Our careers will sometimes keep us away physically from the home, but that will hopefully inspire us to make the most of the opportunities we do get.
Just as importantly as "being around" phsycially is to be there emotionally and mentally too. We know that we could be in the same room with somebody, but be too distracted to really "be there" for them. I am guilty of that when doing work on the computer at night.
You will find that your goods have a good barometer for this. They will drag you away for some attention. They will close your computer while you are on it. They will take your phone away. First and foremost, our sons (and daughters) need our presence - physically and emotionally. Never forget the importance of being around.
