Tough Reminder

Many have heard that one of Steven Curtis Chapman's daughters was accidentally killed in a freak accident involving an SUV. It is during these times that you hurt and cry and find places in your soul that you did not know existed. You ask questions, get angry, and continue to mourn.

I heard about this story yesterday shortly after it happened and I think it affected me subconsciously. Yesterday after dinner I told Heather that I wanted to take Addy disc golfing. It is something we have done together since she was 4 months old. She used to sleep through most of the round, but now has her own mini discs she throws along with me. I had not planned to do this, but looking back, I think the news story prompted me to spend some alone time with my daughter.

We made two stops at 7-11. One on the way and one on the way home. We shared a Gatorade before and during the round. Afterwards, she wanted a "Slurp-lee". She was especially affectionate after we were done. She kept kissing me on the cheek and smiling. It was truly a great father/daughter moment.

I can't imagine losing one of my children to death at a young age. It would rock me to my core and even brings a sadness over me just thinking about it. Hearing stories like this and knowing families that have lost young children remind me to make the most of each day I have with my children. We don't know what each day holds and I will continue to make memories with Heather and the kids as often as I can.

If you have kids, turn off the tv, shut down the computer, get off the phone, and spend some quality time with them. You will be glad you did.