Bein’ a child of the 70s was a weird time. Things that by the time the 80s were out were illegal or definitely considered “bad” for you were considered, heck, Tuesday during that time. For example, athletes regularly came on TV to tell us that smokeless tobacco was a safe alternative to smoking.

I picked up the habit at 6 years old. (No kiddin’!) For the next 30 years it was, well, part of me. Not something I’m proud of, and many a folk tried to get me to quit (me included!). I tried many a time, but nope, nada, nuthin’… till the day I saw the paperwork on a kid that would end up becoming my son. THAT did it. Priority.

(I caught — heck, still catch — a lot of grief on that one from Toni. Her sayin’ it took a little boy to get me to quit when even my love of her wouldn’t do it!) I just never wanted him to see his daddy doin’ something he might pick up as a bad habit.

I also loved to play golf. Did it for years. But when I realized just how much time it was taking away from the family, well, the “garden tools” have become the best dust collectors in the garage. My choice, and it’s one of the best I’ve ever made.

I’m not saying these things as a martyr or to say “ooh… look at me.” It’s more this: it’s the little things, every day, that we make as parents. Our kids growing up may not say anything about noticing them while we’re doing them. But each choice we make is showing them not only where OUR treasure truly is, but also modeling how they can one day lead THEIR families.

Just a thought from a guy who had AWESOME teachers and hopes and prays that I can be half as good a teacher to my son.

Bible Verses

Luke 12:22-40 / Ecclesiastes 3:1–8

Questions

Where are your treasures ??? Do your loved ones know it ???