Kids
I’ve written about my kids
From time to time
Their exploits and accomplishments
And the funny things that happen along the way
But as I was riding down the highway yesterday
I really began to reflect on how lucky I was
Actually how lucky we all were
To have strong, loving and committed relationships
So many struggle with their kids
In so many shapes and sizes
No one is immune
And we’ve had our moments
But as young adults
My crew has really found their stride
Accomplished in their own right
But still loving and respectful of both their parents
It’s really a blessing
And in some ways this is an open letter to them
Although privately
We share these thoughts often
I’m asked regularly how do we make it work
Why does it seem to go so well for my crew
And what’s the secret sauce to success
I think the answer is actually pretty simple
Communicate
Listen
And understand
We spend a lot of time doing just that
Exploring their paths and possibilities
Sprinkling in some experience
But always being sure it’s their journey not mine
You can guide your kids
And show them your mistakes
But you must let them walk their path
As individuals with their own outlooks
When you do that
They come back with thoughts and questions
That builds upon itself
And thus a bridge is spanned
My boys chose a path
That is deeply religious
And some wonder
Whether that’s a good thing
It’s not good or bad
It’s their choice
And that’s the point
It works for them
I sometimes think back
Of stories in my life
And realize those stories happened to me at an age
Younger than my kids are today
So you can’t start to soon
Because their life is moving as fast as yours
And they have their stories
They will share with their kids someday
So be kind
Be nice
And always be respectful
In both directions
That’s what makes things work
And everyone has a shot at that special sauce
To have a crew of loving and supportive kids
With some pretty good laughs too