Fatherhood Friday: Priorities

Having a staring contest with a newborn is one of the weirdest things you will ever do. And it is highly recommended. -Ross McCammon

I have discovered that one of my favorite things in the world is having this boy sleep on my chest. He sacks out and just sprawls all caddywompus.

It is the best!

My wife and I have definitely adjusted our lives and priorities to the rhythms of having this little boy around. A bit sleep deprived, yes, but that is a small price to pay for the incredible joy we are living.

What have I learned this week?

• He and I both dislike diaper changes.
• He has random laughter and smiles. Those are like small gemstones to be collected and treasured throughout the day.
• His arms have a mind of their own. They are a terror and sometimes have a vendetta against his ears. Can't seem to figure that out yet.
• Babies cries used to get on my nerves a bit. Seth's cries are fantastic, and a gift. He is alive, usually hungry, and letting the world know it.
• Cleanliness is next to Godliness because of sanitary and sanity reasons.
• My family is my priority, and this makes everything else hugely important. I love spending time with my wife and the boy. My work has become even more urgent, because I am becoming much more efficient and streamlined in my priorities and responsibilities. Work makes family time possible, and provides for our future. This is its place, and forever where it will stay.

I may be repeating myself here, so please forgive me. I love being a dad! I am already reading to him, telling him about things, about God, about life. We are trying to begin our family traditions, and talking about what kind of life we will live as a family.

Adventure, and lots of it. Love, laughter, and joy. Knowing and doing right, and being against wrong and the evil in this world.

There are some things sacred, and we will honor them.

There are many things that are not, and they will have their place, and not be elevated to sacred.

And we have this moment, and who really knows how many more? This day, and this time are a gift from God.

I will live out every minute as if it were my last. Hopefully Seth will learn to as well.