What my 4 errr... 5 year old has taught me recently

I was doing some reflecting this Father's Day and have realized that my little man Drew has taught me some pretty amazing lessons lately.

He had a birthday recently and I can't say I remember the last time I saw somebody so totally happy for their birthday. As I think about this a few things come to mind.

- He completely enjoys being able to share the moment with his friends. He is probably the friendliest kid you will ever meet. He loves nothing more than to be with other kids and just play. He doesn't care what you look like, where you are from, what your beliefs are; as long as you can bring it on the playground and talk back when he talks to you, consider him your best friend. I wish I had that skill.

- Along with the first point he realizes that it's not all about him. He would be just as happy if it were any other kids birthday party. As long as there are friends, cake and party games, he's good. As hard as I try to do this in my life, I always find myself being selfish and becoming less than desirable to be around. Selfishness can turn otherwise decent people into total monsters. If you would like evidence watch any episode of "bridezillas".

- Not totally unrelated to the birthday party I have realized that Drew loves almost unconditionally. He is not a perfect child by any means. We have had our moments and I've been to the point of screaming at him and hauling him off to his room more than a few times. As hurt as he can be by my countertantrums and shortfalls as a parent, he is always quick to forgive. Paige tells me I can do no wrong in his eyes and judging by his frequent "I love you daddy's" even 5 minutes after yelling at him, I am almost convinced that she is right.

- Finally I've been blown away at some of the things he's been able to accomplish lately. He has gone from not wanting me to take off training wheels to going with me on 3 mile bike rids with no training wheels. And from screaming and fighting because he doesn't want to put his face in the water to jumping off the diving board in just a few weeks. It has taken a great deal of trust and bravery on his part. I wish in life I were brave enough to walk right up to proverbial diving board and belly flop off the end without hesitation. At times I have held myself back for fear of failing or looking stupid and probably missed some cool stuff.

So to Drew, keep up the good work and thanks for teaching me some pretty amazing lessons from your awesome example. And for the rest of us, here's to living like Drew.

-Justin