Today we celebrate 11 years that these eyes have been a part of our lives. It’s going too fast. Way too fast.
These eyes captured me the first time I saw them
These eyes ushered in being the father of a daughter for the first time
These eyes teach me about compassion, joy, sensitivity and courage
These eyes scan the room, the court, the gym to make sure I’m watching and approve
These eyes have seen me fail as a dad but extended grace over and over again
When these eyes lock mine, I melt
In these eyes I see so much potential and promise
These eyes are intelligent and silly and know how to balance both
These eyes welcome a stranger and make them a friend
These eyes are so similar to her mamas
These eyes can bring tears to mine with surprisingly little effort
These eyes will one day change the world
How do I know?
Because these eyes forever changed mine.
I love you Miss Em.
What a lovely post, Aaron. It’s so encouraging and such a blessing to see the Lord blessing families and families that recognize their blessings in our world today. As a fairly new parent, and learning as I go along, every day brings more appreciation and urgency (my own urgency) to get it right. We just got a copy of a brand new book, well renewed, so to speak, I think you might enjoy called “She Calls Me Daddy: 7 Things You Need to Know About Building a Complete Daughter,” by Robert Wolgemuth. His original book of nearly the same name came out in the 90s, a best-seller, has been updated for today. His girls are grown up and give their own input along with their husbands who are daddies to girls. I understand 40% of the book is new material. It’s so unique in this way. Robert puts the anxieties of Daddy raising his girl(s) to rest, guiding you through challenges and good times – protecting, conversation, affection, discipline, laughter, faith, conduct. So great for helping daddies learn to lead, love and cherish. An invaluable investment. I highly recommend it!