As the 48-year old father of a 3 1/2 year old boy I am re-learning lessons I should have known years ago. Enjoy the small victories. Appreciate simple things. Be amazed by the sights and sounds you take for granted.
My son Jace enjoys pushing the button to open/close the garage door. Moving laundry from the washer to the dryer makes him feel helpful. Every single night for the past three weeks we have walked two doors down from our house because he wants to see the same Christmas lights up close. Seeing a dozen or so semis lined up in the casino parking lot near our home amazes him. Making Playdoh spaghetti never gets old. Getting his own clean dish out of the dishwasher for dinner is joyful. Walking to the mailbox across the street together is a cause to celebrate.
As an adult, we see these things as tasks. Mundane, laborious, boring and unavoidable. Through a child’s eye, getting to do these tasks or help with chores is amazing. It gives off a feeling of independence and contributing the family dynamic.
Every day after work I can’t wait to pick him up from his mother’s place, get back to my home and play. No matter how tough the work day he makes it all melt away.
Enjoy the little things in your life. Be amazed at the ordinary. It is a great feeling.