Milestones and moments

In life there are many more moments than milestones. There are only so many milestones in a person’s life. Examples would be graduations, marriage, children births, certain anniversaries, promotions, retirement etc. Examples of moments are what happened today and yesterday and last week. It’s the hug of a grandchild, the uplifting word from a friend, the peace of sleeping well, a good book in front of the fireplace, a spouse that kisses you each morning before work, a child that tells you they love you, the success of an accomplishment, and the joy of a job well done. These could go on for page after page.

What I am saying here is that to many people, quality is more important than quantity. Ask your child if they would rather have a fancy vacation once a year with you or have you pray with them each night as you tuck them into bed. I will tell you that quantity of time together is far more important than an every now and then quality time. Life is in the simple moments when there is no video camera rolling in background. It is setting on the side of your child’s bed and making sure they know you love them. It’s the holding them when their heart is hurt over some boy or girl they liked at school. It is doing the right thing in front of them so they can see who you really are.

In my experience, the teaching does not end when the children leave home. In fact the teaching and good examples are even more important after they have been exposed to living around other people.

Don’t let your life become centered around a destination. Let it be a joy journey. Don’t just decide you will be happy when this event or that milestone is reached. If you do, when you are older you will look back over the years with regret. You will see that you put your joy milestones ahead of special moments. When you pass away and your life on earth is over, the most meaningful things your children will remember will be the simple moments when they felt safe and secure in your love. KT

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *