Today, while driving to the farmers market, Orion, my four year old son said, “I want to stay in this world forever and ever.” I thought, then asked why? He said, “Because this world is too cool.” I honestly had to pull over and process the beauty of what he said.
While we could leave it there with a smile, I’m not. Because Orion is absolutely right. Infinite wisdom from a four year old. Now parked on the side of the road, I looked around and took in what he was seeing. We were surrounded by snow capped mountains and the aspens are changing colors. We are healthy, happy and the list goes on. Dads, in so many ways we help create that perception of the world. One way is how we engage our children outside the house. Do you get excited about the rain while hiking through the woods? Or sit on the ground with your daughter to play with bugs and worms? Even driving to a location, I will get the kiddos hyped up about the beautiful world outside our car window. “Orion,” I ask, “Why are those birds circling above?” “Cassi (two year old), should we find a skunk when we get to the trail?” “No no no no, meow,” is her reply. Regardless, this brings me to my second point, the moment you step out of the car, start talking to your children about colors, rocks, trees, and anything else you set your eyes on, I believe is the moment we help create a positive perspective. Our children are constantly watching and listening to us. Observing how I respond when I step in mud, or forgetting my rain jacket while they are snuggly warm and dry. Even doing a crazy cuckoo bird dance in the woods.
While I cannot apply science, brain plasticity/ elasticity studies, MRI scans or any immediate research to support my beliefs here, I will go on the record saying, “Dads what do you have to lose acting like a cuckoo bird at a park or jumping in a mud puddle?” As for me, a dread head daddy, I guarantee you, adults and children will know I am there.
Busy Dad 