They Were Listening

Having multiple kids is amazing at times, and crazy others. Fatherhood is one of the most challenging and rewarding things I have ever had the honor of doing. Watching them grow up is so fucking rewarding. Just knowing they're really developing their personalities, finding their limits, building friendships, dating. But the part that really makes me proud, the part that kicks my feelings right in the balls, is watching them when they think no one is.

Yeah sometimes they'll screw up, fuck we all did, but more often than not, their true character will show. There have been countless times, where my kids have bought something for someone who otherwise would go without, give a generous tip, make a donation, or be there for someone in time of need. Those are the moments that reassure your faith in this next generation, knowing that they were listening when you were talking.... Sometimes a little too well...

Being able to spend time one on one occasionally with them is amazing. There's no competing for attention or deciding what to do, where to go, what to eat, etc.. and then they both can be themselves while having some time apart from their siblings. It gives them a chance to talk, maybe about things they wouldn't with other people around. They both know any time they want to come over all they have to do is call. And they do, some times together, some times solo. And I'm completely ok with that.

Stepping back and looking in at all of this, gives me faith that I'm doing alright with this whole fatherhood thing... Since there is no book, we each have to write our own. Taking what we experienced and needed as a child and applying it to how we parent. We're going to fuck up, more often than not, and that's ok. As long as we stay, and keep showing up.