The blessings of children
I got up late this morning. Had set the alarm clock at 7:17 am. Within a minute I was surrounded by our 3 children; Simon (4), Anna (2) & Daniel (5 mo, who obviously didn’t run to our bed by himself). They were crawling all over me, trying to kiss me on the cheeks, or to snuggle around me. What a wonderful way to wake up! You fathers (and perhaps mothers as well) out there know what I’m talking about.
I’ve been thinking lately about our 3 little blessings, the children. We’ve kept up the pace, with all three kids being born within a period of about 3,5 years. Three kids so close to each other is rough, especially for my lovely Johanna who’s at home with them all. But it has its blessings as well. Being close in age means having someone to play with. And they seem to love each other’s company, all three of them. Truth said, especially the older two like fighting as well. “No, stupid Anna, you can’t take that doll!” [PUNCH!!!! SMACK!!!!] “Mommyyy… Aaaaaaaaaa” [starts crying]
Anyway, they’re all wonderful, and all quite different. Even little Daniel who isn’t even 6 months yet, has a very distinct and charming personality. Amazing what richness God has invested in little children. And such a blessing. I love playing with the kids. They make me forget all the pain, all the frustration and all the sleepless nights. Chasing them around the house (with them screaming theatrically), having a snowball fight, racing down a hill on sledges, the list could be endless…
Man, it feels good to be alive today.
Me, husband, father of three, 
Thank you for writing this.
I am 44 and my wife is expecting. While children as supposed to be a blessing, I did not find that to be true with my first two children who are now 19 and 15.
Yes, there are great superstars and some of the most mature and wonderful young people that I know. However, in all honesty they got that way from me paying a severe price as a single dad and with much prayer, sacrifice and tons of hard work.
Besides the obvious finacial sacrifice that all parents share, I can not tell you about the emotional debt that I paid to get my kids where they are. They did not get there by accident.
And now with this one on the way, I can not tell you the feelings of depression, anger, stress and worry that I have. Yes, there is another $250 big ones to shell out for someone else that will never appreciate what parents do for their kids. But the biggest angst that I have is that I will never get any return on my investment of love and emotion.
Can anyone help me see what is so wonderful about raising another child who will see me only as a cash register and grow up and ingnore any contributions that I have made in their life?
I hate this feeling. Please help!
In his grace,
Al