The biggest thing I learned from my own children is how selfish I am. This is a lesson I continue to learn in new and different ways with each passing year.
Children (particularly the younger variety) don’t ask for their parents’ time — they demand it. Every time their request is made, I have a choice — my fulfillment or theirs?
I feel like I have failed this test many many times. (“Dad, your computer is more important than I am!”) But the few times I have passed the test by making the right choice, I never regret it. I’d urge you to do the same.
A second thing I learned is that having children has expanded my capacity to love. I was single until I was 29. Getting married expanded that love capacity. Having children expanded it further.
Special thanks to Robert Hruzek for suggesting this post.
Cats, of course, can be more demanding than children, as your picture suggests. But I don’t think they grow our souls in the same way!
You are right, Marti — we can learn a lot from animals too!
I think children are remarkably clear mirrors into our own souls, Paul. What we are inside tends to be the same thing that comes out in them!
I got married at 29, too, and I completely agree with your statement about how marriage expanded your capacity to love. It’s a beautiful statement your children will eventually reflect, too.
Hey, a tip o’ the hat for the WILF entry!
There is no doubt that having children is the catalyst to looking beyond ourselves. And even looking at ourselves with a whole new perspective, hopefully causing us to want to be better, to love deeper and have a desire for our children to have more of the Truth, so they have a chance to exceed our expectations (even their own)!!
Great post! Small typo?? You write: “I have a choice – my fulfillment or theirs?” but obviously from the context you meant “my fulfillment or both of ours.”
Love it Tim! Great point...