They just go together
As I began this month’s article, I was tempted to use the title: “Confessions of a Father.”
You see, over the years I’ve often joked that Mother’s Day was a day that dads took care of the kids so moms could rest. Then Father’s Day was a day that dads spent time with the kids, and moms got to rest.
The reality is that both parents need to spend time with their children, and both parents need to have time to rest. In our society, we’ve gotten so busy working to accumulate ‘stuff’ that we lose sight of those around us. Especially those closest to us – family!
With the pandemic crisis seemingly winding down and summer at our doorstep, I would like to encourage all of you to get outside and enjoy each other. Not just for a day, but every day. Go for a walk with your young children around your neighborhood and point out the beauty of the flowers and trees. Take your elementary children to the park and play Frisbee.
Teenagers may be hesitant to go out with a parent(s) but don’t give up. Get them a fun drink someplace, then sit outside and let them know that you love them and what you are proud of them for.
The words of a father, and mother, will have an impact for a lifetime. Don’t waste the opportunity to connect with your children for a few extra hours at the office to buy things that will wear out.
Now specifically to the fathers out there. You need to take care of your health. No really! If you are overweight, out of shape, suffering from signs of (or more likely ignoring), high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic diseases – the time to fix it is NOW! Otherwise, you won’t be around to watch your children or grandchildren grow up!
Unfortunately, I can speak about this from experience. My dad’s father died two years before I was born. Neither I nor any of my siblings ever got to meet him. My dad’s mom passed before my three younger brothers were born. Sadly, the ‘generational’ curse did not stop there as my father passed away almost eleven years ago. He has missed the birth of two grandchildren by my younger brothers and their wives, missed my son’s wedding to a wonderful young woman, and has missed countless other moments that could have been remembered for a lifetime.
Getting healthy can be overwhelming. The farther away from health you are, the more overwhelming it can be. Don’t let that stop you. Seek help from someone you can trust and who knows how to get you where you want to go. Look at your nutrition, exercise habits, and how you think and talk – to yourself – as well as others. And make sure that you consider how your body functions in general! You can spend $1000s on supplements and gym memberships, but if your body – specifically your nervous system – is not operating at its best, you won’t get the full benefit. In fact, you are likely wasting your money.
The Greek physician Hippocrates has been credited with the saying: “Look well to the spine for the cause of disease.” As a chiropractor, I have to agree with him! I am here to help.
If you are a dad, mom, or plan to be – please, for your children’s sake, take care of yourself!
