At least that's what my oldest son told me the other day. I think it's amusing to listen to the perspectives of a younger generation. He told me the other day that he doesn't envy me and said I do nothing but work. That it must be a drudgery for me. He said I should play more. That I don't have any fun. Without life experiences, it's hard to comprehend older people. I find it hard to understand people older than myself, but to have a conversation with my son about how I should live my life was interesting. My son will soon be 20 years old. He basically has a life without responsibility. Sure, he has a couple of jobs and a class at a community college but in comparison, his life is free. So to hear him give me "sage" advice about what I should value was interesting. And from his view of the world, he's right.
Ok, I'll admit, he's right to a degree. Having too much house and too much yard takes away from your family. Sure, you're at home but your constantly working on something. I could have had a smaller house or lived in a neighborhood where I didn't have to do so much work. But I think on a larger perspective a son is never going to comprehend what a father can find enjoyable or relaxing or satisfying.
- There is satisfaction knowing that your children are living a life without wondering if they will eat tonight.
- There is joy when you drive up and your little kids open the car door to give you a big hug and a kiss. What's that worth?
- There is joy when your teenage daughter asks you if she can talk and ask for some advice. How much would you pay for that?
- Is there any satisfaction knowing that your kids want you to play with them? Even when they're 16? You betcha.
My son hasn't experience what it's like to have a wife, a lover and best friend. I don't blame him for having these ideas about me. It's just interesting that his perspective about my life is the way it is.
1 Cor. 13:11 says: When I was a little child I talked and felt and thought like a little child. Now that I am a man my childish speech and feeling and thought have no further significance for me.
So I wonder...What I am not seeing that my heavenly father is seeing? What is satisfying to Him? What brings him joy? Many times I think that I have been given the wonderful privilege of being the father of six children in order to get a glimpse of what He sees, feels and desires. It brings me satisfaction to have my children truly desire me and want to be around me and talk to me. It breaks my heart to see them disobey and avoid me. My heart is troubled until I know they are safe, etc.
While I will not stop being the father I think they need, I'll take my son's advice and loosen up a bit.
Note: I've not fully thought this out but would be curious if any of you have any thoughts.
