Enjoy All of Life's Little Moments

Darrell Reflects as a Father

Last June, I talked about my father's story, how I remembered him growing up, and the lessons he taught me, such as to respect others. This Father's Day, though, I've started reflecting on the ways that my father has inspired me as a father myself.

Some people begin to change once they become parents. For me, though, even when I was very young, I highly valued time spent with my parents. One lesson I've always been grateful for from my father was to address my family members and strangers respectfully. At least within our family and culture, that was always being taught to me and my siblings growing up.

I've always visited my dad (and mom, when she was alive) as much as I could during the weekdays since our laboratory is so close to their home. And as I watch my dad age, I've become increasingly grateful that I don't have any regrets about the time we've spent together.

I've also come to realize just how important his role was in my life and, in turn, maybe how important my role is in my daughters' lives.

Time is short, and, in the busy life of a parent, it's easy to see how time slips away. I've found that one of the best ways to take time a little more slowly is to regularly say goodbye or goodnight to my girls. Every morning before I head out to work, even if they are still sleeping, I'll tell each of them goodbye. Any time I am leaving them, I make sure to say goodbye. And before bedtime, I'll always drop by each of their rooms and check in on how they're doing. Maybe we'll talk about school, dance, or the newest social drama they're going through. It can be tough for working parents to be part of their kids' experiences sometimes, but, regardless, I don't want to ever seem out of reach for them.

The only downside is that I'll volunteer to get my wife a glass of water before bed, but I'll take so long talking to our daughters that sometimes she'll get it herself. Haha! Sorry, honey.

The most important role I have as a father is simply to be there for them, but I take a lot of pride in being a good role model for older family dynamics. Caring for parents in their older age can take a lot of time and support from spouses as well. Thanks to my wife and daughters, I'm lucky enough that I was able to visit my parents so much, but I hope that it will encourage my girls to spend time with us when we're older, too.

I hope you have a wonderful Father's Day, everyone! Enjoy all of life's little moments.