By: Gregory Smith
Changing Our Narrative
Fresh off the Fourth of July weekend, I had the time to reflect on the joy I get from spending time with my two children Royal (13) and Airess (8). They are the two greatest treasures in my life. I’d give and do anything to keep them happy.
Being a young father, I always feared not being able to provide enough for them but as I’ve gotten older and wiser, I realize all they want from me is time (for the most part) – lol. Time is the greatest investment you could give, in my opinion, and they deserve all of mine.
I can’t remember a time growing up when my parents were not there for my most memorable moments, which in turn embedded in me the same values with my own children, from taking and picking them up from school, practices, games, performances, going on trips, and now even coaching my son in multiple sports. I’ve tried to make every single one not only because it’s important to me but because it’s important to them – even if they don’t know it yet.
I couldn’t imagine missing out on seeing them at their happiest times. Hopefully the same values my parents indirectly instilled in me I pass them on to mine. This past weekend we had the chance to go to Las Vegas for my mother’s birthday. We spent it doing our favorite pastimes: eating and being at the pool. That might seem simple to most but it’s our thing, along with a lot of horseplay and cracking jokes.
The best part about it is being able to watch their interactions with each other and all their idiosyncratic ways. I’d like to think I have a great relationship with my children even after I have to crack down when they get a little out of hand and I threaten to leave them for somebody else’s kids. But honestly, I wouldn’t trade them for the world and I love them unconditionally.
Looking towards the future, I hope we can continue to share our most special times together and stay as connected as we are. I implore all parents reading this to just remember that material things are great but nothing beats your time, presence and undivided attention.
