As I sit here, just shy of midnight on January 22, 2017, I’m overwhelmed with guilt. Earlier, I was drifting off while watching endless highlights from today’s NFL games, but then I made the mistake of reflecting on my day—something I usually do to ensure I’ve balanced fun, relaxation, accomplishment, family time, personal time, and preparations for the week ahead. When everything feels in harmony, I can tuck myself in with a satisfied sigh.
However, tonight was far from harmonious. I’ve been grappling with the guilt of not fully appreciating my 11-year-old daughter’s creative spirit and her love for celebration. She has a knack for crafting delightful stories and parties that put my sarcastic demeanor to shame. Recently, she decorated our home for the NFL games, complete with themed snacks and decorations, and I completely missed the moment.
She created an elaborate setup for the games: chips and salsa artfully arranged, homemade cookies that she spent hours preparing, and even a “Let’s Go Falcons!” banner on the sliding door. All she wanted was for us to cheer for her chosen team and share in the excitement. But I brushed her off, claiming indifference to the game since my team, the Raiders, was out of contention. I refused to partake in her carefully crafted celebration, neglected to even grab a cookie, and walked away from an opportunity to bond with her.
Instead of engaging with her joyful efforts, I prioritized my own distractions—exercise, eBay sales, and football. I didn’t take a single picture or show any enthusiasm for her setup. The guilt weighs heavily on me, especially knowing she seemed unaffected. Perhaps she expected my lack of participation, and that realization stings.
Deep down, I know I’m a good father—there are the nightly piggyback rides, the lessons shared on the basketball court, and the laughter we create together. Yet, I let this moment slip away. At 11, she’s on the brink of becoming a teenager, and I failed to seize this special time to connect with her.
Tomorrow, I plan to wake her up with a big hug and a heartfelt thank you for being the incredible kid she is—she has undoubtedly taught me more than I could ever impart to her.
If you’re navigating the journey of parenthood and considering family dynamics, you might find insight in our piece on at-home insemination kits for creating a family. It’s an excellent resource that resonates with the joys and challenges of parenthood, much like the experiences we share as parents. And for meal planning, check out the top meal subscription boxes that can help ease your weekly stress.
In summary, it’s essential to cherish moments with our children, as they grow up faster than we realize. The guilt of missed opportunities can be a powerful reminder to be more present.