For Love and Money
Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.
How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!- Psalm 127:3-5
Like it were yesterday, I clearly remember the events leading to the birth of our first child. After spending the previous night and the whole day in hospital, I decided to go home and refresh myself in readiness for another long night at the hospital. As I drove home in the evening traffic, my mom-in-law, whom I had left at the hospital, called to tell me that the baby was on its way. I quickly rushed back to the hospital in time to welcome the flesh-of-my-flesh into the world.
Other than the fact that I was both excited and exhausted, I didn't feel anything unusual about my newly acquired status as a father on this day. Instead, over time I have come to learn that fatherhood is not an event but a journey taken together with my children. My biggest fear back then was whether I was going to afford the daily supply of diapers and other baby supplies considering we were just about to move into a bigger house to accommodate a new addition into the family. A couple of years later and the family has since grown and my worries about raising children have dissipated and now my kids represent my love, my joy and my hopes.
Although I was brought up in a macho-centric society, I have to admit that I love my kids more than I would have ever expected. The daily kisses and hugs have only served to make my heart more mellow. These daily doses of loving moments are what I have come to treasure most even though sometimes I am forced to limit on the hugs and kisses as they sometimes can degenerate into a viscous competition between my kids.
Even though my kids make me mad due to their naughtiness, I must say that nothing brings me more joy than spending time with them. Playing with them is like re-living my childhood, only that this time I have all the toys that I ever wanted when I was a kid. The long hours spent in the basement playing with toys and games, the park plays, and evening walks serve as a way to refresh me after the long day at work. Like other parents, I use the excuse of buying them toys that I want to play with too. I know I spoil them, but then I'd rather they have a memorable childhood.
Lastly, my kids represent my hopes for the future. As they grow up, it is my dream that they will become world-changers and make a difference in whatever they choose to do as adults. Above all, I want them to be successful and I will do everything that I can possibly do so that they may achieve their wildest aspirations.
In many ways my kids are my greatest blessing and I can't be thankful enough for the opportunity that I have to be a father. I consider fatherhood as a marvelous experience that brings out all the good in me and allows me to be a better person.
Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there.