While in the Ed.D. program I thought I would focus and work hard to finish in a timely matter so that I could than focus on my family. While I was busy for three years in classes and with the dissertation my girls continued to grow. I realized that they are not little girls anymore.
Aleigh is now a 14 year old freshman and Caitlin is 11 and a 6th grader. I only have three years left with Aleigh before she goes off to college and Caitlin has entered the stage where peer relationships are important to her. I need to be fully present with them so that I can really listen to them. I need to understand their hopes and dreams so I can support them. I don't have the pull of classes or a dissertation to finish to be the reasons to not be present.
This word will challenge me this year, but I honestly believe that this word has been placed on my heart. I look at my girls I am so proud of them and who they are becoming. I just don't want to have any regret that I was not always present when I was with them.
I love this Tim, you have inspired me to work on being more present with my boys. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great reflection on the things that are really important in life! It's so easy to be pulled in different directions, and I appreciate your intentionality in really being present - I'm sure it will pay dividends in many different areas of life!
ReplyDeleteTim,
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the Tribe! This point really hit home to me, because I also have two daughters who are almost 15 and 13 and I struggle with being present. I want to treasure the time I have with them and still be a good principal. It will require being "present" in both personal and professional areas. Thanks for the reminder!
Jon