Random Thoughts and Realizations

“What were you thinking?”

That’s a question I ask myself at least two or three times a week (more like everyday). Often, it leaves me with an optimistic, forward facing smile while embracing my efforts as a father of five beautiful daughters, three energetic dogs, a musician and public relations professional.

I think about my accomplishments, professional and academic, and I realize they pale in comparison to my greatest accomplishments, my five beautiful daughters. They are my legacy, but they are more.

My daughters are mine to mold and shape for only a short time. Then they go off into the world on their own, calling to check on their old man, every so often. They will make their own decisions, start their own families, work their own jobs (fingers crossed) and shape their own futures. I’m elated my girls will be successful, but the realization of our limited time together saddens me.

I don’t worry my daughters didn’t feel loved. I tell them at random, throughout the day. I hug them and talk to them. I listen to what they have to say, even if it’s about Minecraft, Twilight, or the newest Rick Riordan book. I listen as the recount their moments, happy and sad, knowing these moments, as fleeting as they are, help shape my daughters into the women they will become.

I am sad because I’m selfish and protective. I am sad because one day I will no longer be the love of their lives, and I fear I will be obsolete.

It’s in those moments I think, “What were you thinking?”

I then realize I’ll be there to help them with my experiences as a parent, listening to them and providing insight as needed. I will likely have grand children to love, spoil and return to their parents. I laugh at those thoughts, wondering why I was ever sad in the first place. It’s in those moments I realize I will always be relevant as long as I listen and respond in a meaningful way.

The text message above is a message I sent to each of my daughters, individually, because it’s true. I wrote that message after one of those contemplative moments because it is important for our children to know their own worth.

I will continue making music, releasing albums, working with clients and pursuing my professional goals, but my children are my greatest accomplishments. They should always know that, and I will strive to make it clear to them.

Take the time to let your loved ones know how special they are. Spend the time you have with them. Love them. The world will keep moving without you, but you will help create a better world for your children just by spending time with them and listening.

Share this with someone you know could benefit from this. Cheers!

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