open thoughts

I am making the realization that there truly is a difference between life-change and transformation.

On January 26 I experienced life change. Last Tuesday Sara and I welcomed our precious daughter Ella into our world and our family. No ifs, ands, or buts about it... Life changed. In a great way I might add. The moment Ella was born I became a dad, a biological dad. See for me that was a life change. I changed from just a husband to a dad as well.

I am realizing, however, that I did not become a father at that moment. Sure maybe in title, but not for real. I am only beginning to realize that I have been and continue to be transformed into a father. As you well know transformation doesn't happen in an instant(as much as my generation has come to expect). Transformation doesn't even happen overnight. Transformation is a a process, an ongoing and active process. It requires time, a good bit of it actually. Quite frankly, I am good with that time requirement.

I am ready to learn along the way. I am prepared for it not to come naturally and that I will have to work for it. I believe I will survive and be the better for it.

I give thanks that fatherhood is not only life-changing but a transformational experience. One that I will cherish forever.

Do you think there is a difference between life-change and transformation? Let me know in the comments.

[Posted with iBlogger from my iPhone]

Kids Ask the Best Questions

This morning as I made my way into work, I went to visit the mall’s public restroom before clocking in. As I turned down the long corridor that leads to restrooms, I saw a little girl and her mom exit the ladies restroom at the end of the long stretch. They were making their way back into the mall and I was walking down to the men’s room. We passed without a word to one another. Nothing out of the ordinary. However, after we passed each other, I heard the little girl ask, “Mom, why didn’t you say hi to him?” The mom responded kindly to her daughter, “Well honey, I didn’t know him.”

That little girl’s question has haunted me all day. Why didn’t I say hello? Would I had offended anyone by just kindly saying hello. Would I have ruined someone’s day by simply acknowledging their presence as we passed? In that little girl’s innocence it only made sense that you say hello to everyone. No one is too good or not good enough to be acknowledged whether you know them or not.

I have been challenged today... by a little girl. A little girl who sees a much smaller world than I do. A little girl who’s less worried about if anyone responds back as long they are acknowledged. A little girl who gets the big picture even in if only in an innocent way. Thank you little girl for asking the question. Now, I need to respond.

So, I dare ask... did you pass someone today... sure you did. But why didn’t you say hi to them?