My wife and I have now been back here in Dallas 59 days. All I know is that life in Dallas got in a hurry real fast during the time that I was gone. I’m still trying to catch my breath as I’m watching the busyness of life flash by. I’m not sure why or where everyone is going but people are in a real hurry to be somewhere, doing something.
As we’re watching “real life” whiz by, my wife and I turn to one another and smile. I guess we’re reminded of an important lesson we learned while living on Saipan, which is that when you’re too “busy” with life, you’re actually missing out on “living” it. I know it’s cliché or cheesy, but there’s such truths in these words.
One sad thing I noticed is that the price of a workaholic society yields children starving for time and attention from their parents or guardians. I’ve noticed that people throw themselves into their jobs and slave away endlessly at work. They work to earn enough money to put food on the table and a roof over their children’s heads.
However, I’ve also noticed a trend of the affluenza parents and their children. These parents also work hard but their efforts are toward the luxuries and extravagances. Affluenza is the term used to explain the problems that occur “when individuals are in pursuit of money, wealth, and material possession at the expense of other sources of self-esteem and contentment.”
What I’m seeing are unhappy children with a ton of toys, electronic gizmos, clothing, and excesses. Yet instead of giving them the time and attention that they so desperately crave, these parents give them material things. My hope and encouragement to parents who shower their children with “stuff” is to stop. Give your children food, water, and make sure they have clothes to wear. Comfort them when they are sick and encourage them when they’re down. Don’t give your kids material things, instead give them love, time, and your attention.
Adults who live a fast-paced lifestyle are quick to talk but slow to listen. When your children talk, stop what you’re doing and listen first. You’ll be suprised at the things your 5 year old can teach you.
In the final analysis, think about these questions,
“If I were to die tomorrow, how would my children remember me, as someone who spent time with them or who spent time at work?”
“Would I have any regrets? Would they?”
We keep saying that we’re working hard to create a better life for ourselves and our children. But at what price? If the costs outweigh the benefits isn’t it time to reconsider our choices?
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