Cats in the Cradle

I had the opportunity tonight to have a client come to my office with his 17-month-old son and I watched in amazement as the little guy explored, laughed and finally had a # 2 which left a lasting impression. I remember those days so well and as we talked, we discussed the challenges that children bring. The financial impact is huge; the change in freedom and flexibility is a major adjustment and nobody ever recaptures the lost sleep. When you look at the flip side though, it is all worth it. The joy that children bring cannot be described in a short blog like this. I am certain that I could write a book on the subject. The first words, the first tooth, the first step, the first day of school, the first Christmas concerts, the first report card, the first dance, the first game, the first night away from them. These years pass too fast and before you know it, we have been reduced to the money lender and taxi driver. I remember making a decision almost 12 years ago to change occupations so that I would stop missing all these firsts and I know now that I made the right choice. As Harry Chapin so aptly explained in my favorite song Cats in the Cradle, they will grow up just like you. In a world focused on material stuff, what a great time of year to give to your kids, the greatest present of all your presence. Taking the time to build them a rink so that you can let them be an NHL superstar in front of their greatest fan will provide memories that will long outlast your savings and your health. Maybe it is showing them how to bake their favorite cookie, no matter if it turns out round or not. Let them see their hero in action. You will have placed a cornerstone that will build a boy into a father of the future, or a daughter into that mother to behold, holding dear the lesson that keeps on giving. When you love you get love and the light that shines from a glowing heart, will change lives forever and ever.
I have attached the link to the song. It still touches me today and I thank God that I heard it as a young man so that it saved me unnecessary pain later in life.