Two Words for Dads

Two days ago, families across the globe celebrated Father's Day.  Several years ago, my wife Vonda Kay told me that our three children wanted ideas for gifts to get me for Father's Day.  In a moment of inspiration for which I am thankful, I told her to tell them to give me as gifts their ideas of an activity that each would like to do with me.  From that was born the annual Father's Day gift of time with each child (one now an adult) on adventure.  Art projects, Alaskan hikes, and just some good ol' times together have been the best gifts.  

Thankfully, those times are not limited to once a year.  In addition to those special "dad day" activities, I make it a practice to be intentional about spending intentional time with my children.  In reference to that last sentence, I point out that I used the word intentional twice.  Why?  Obviously to draw attention to the word but, more importantly, to the topic.  Life well lived is intentional.  

Good father skills do not happen without intentionality.  Family memories that help joy live long occur because of effort. 

Recently my family re-watched the movie "Christopher Robin."  We did so mainly for two reasons.  One, to see how each character (Pooh, Owl, Rabbit, etc.) corresponds with our Enneagram Number.  Two, to experience the joy of watching Tigger lovingly introduce himself to Madeline Robin.  Trust me; it's funny!

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In addition to several good laughs, those who watch the movie receive the gift of a life lesson.  Namely - make time with your family a priority.  For Christopher (played artfully by Ewan McGregor) to learn the lesson, he had to travel back to The Hundred Acre Wood.  There his faithful childhood friends who happen to be stuffed animals remind him of the important things.  So, dads, if you like to laugh and think you would gain from a word from talking with stuffed animals, watch "Christopher Robin."  Better yet, watch it with your son or daughter.  

On that note, I close with two final words:  Be Intentional.

#ordinarylives

Photo Credit:  bostonglobe.com/arts/movies/2018/08/02