A Look Back at the Day My Son Was Born
Two years ago on this day, November 3rd at
It’s amazing to be the first person that your child sees when they enter this world. I remember Xavier staring at me. That was the second time God stopped time for me. It was like a brief moment God let me have a tiny peep at Heaven through the eyes of my son. It was at that moment I realize the significance of the responsibility God gave to men. I understood that I will be held accountable for my family.
Later that day, I had time to sit down and think about the day. The single piece of advice that stuck out that day was from my father. His advice was simple, but required commitment and dedication. He instructed me to “bond with my son”. I believe that I have accomplished that.
While thinking about the day, I decided to document a few simple, but very important things that I was going to do for Xavier. One of the most important promises that I made to my son was that I would never lie to him. That is one thing that parents do that irritates me. Don’t lie to your children.
These are a few simple things that I try to do with my son that is based off of the “Don’t Lie To Your Children” principle.
· Don’t lie to them about Christmas, regardless of how innocent you think it may be.
· Don’t lie to them when they ask you a question. Take the time to explain it in a way that they can comprehend it.
· Teach them how to properly manage money. If you’re not good at it, take them to someone who is. You are the example.
· Go to church with your child, don’t drop them off and pick them up. What example are you setting when you do that?
· Encourage them in everything they do. Don’t destroy their dreams and ambition, because you gave up or jealous.
· Apologize to your children when you are wrong. You set the example. Your child will remember, appreciate and respect you more when you can admit that you are wrong.
· Treat your spouse or the mother/father with respect. Your child is watching you.
· Spend quality time with your child on a regular basis. Remember, God gave you this responsibility, not your Nanny, Babysitter or their Grandparents.
In conclusion, I just want to say that, I thank God for this opportunity. I consider myself fortunate to have an example of what a father is suppose to be by looking at the examples demonstrated to me by my own father. I consider myself fortunate to have a wife that is supportive and stands with me in this journey of parenthood. I consider myself fortunate to have a son as intelligent, healthy, beautiful and loving as my son, Xavier.
