“I didn’t realize it was the last time.”
I reflect on the small moments that often go unnoticed on this Father’s Day.
As fathers, we spend so much time trying to do everything for our families, working hard to provide, protect, and solve problems, that we sometimes miss the little victories along the way.
And the truth is, those moments, when they’re gone, leave us wondering, “Was that it?”
The Story of Parenthood
As fathers, we’re wired to do everything for our families, to protect them and solve their problems. But we often miss the small victories when our kids turn to us and ask, “Dad, can you help?”
Thankfully, our little girls have become great adults, yet I still get the request, “Dad, can you help?” It’s no longer homework; it’s supporting them in discussing financial decisions or income taxes.
But here’s the thing: you don’t know when these moments are the last. The last time they’ll need you to help them with a project. The last time they’ll crawl into your bed for comfort. The last time they’ll hold your hand as you cross the street.
I didn’t see it coming, but one day, that little girl standing next to me was ready for us to walk down the aisle together as she began a new chapter in her life.
Now, we enjoy seeing them grow as parents. I savor every moment. I know I can’t stop time, but I can control how present I am. Every “last time” is an invitation to live more fully, be here, and embrace the chaos, the mess, and the joy.
If you’re a father or a parent, it’s crucial to stop and take stock of where you are before you miss the next “last time.”
Fatherhood – A Reminder of Life’s Preciousness
You see, we all have our version of “last times.” For many fathers, it’s the last time their child will ask to sit on their lap or need help with something. And here’s the kicker: most of us don’t realize these moments are slipping away until they have passed.
But here’s what I believe—sometimes, we focus too much on the “big wins”: the career, the success, the money. Meanwhile, those tiny moments with our kids don’t come with a medal or certificate slip by unnoticed. I’m passionate about stepping away from work and being present in these moments. We must stop waiting for the next big thing and start cherishing what we already have.
Fatherhood is more than just being a provider or being present. It’s about understanding that those “last times” are an unspoken reminder of life’s preciousness.
My passion is being there for my grown children and their children. Every hug, conversation, and shared glass of wine is a real treasure, and I want to ensure I never let them slip away.
I don’t know why I feel so much better when I look back at the simple moments of being a father. It’s not the career wins or accolades, but the quiet moments with them.
This Father’s Day, I encourage you to live intentionally so that you’re fully present the next time you hear your child’s voice or feel the buzz on your phone from a grandchild Facetiming you to say “goodnight”. Let’s make sure we don’t let these moments slip by unnoticed.
Transform how you live. Start now.
Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers who embrace the joy of the “last times” and make the most of the present!
-Michael Tannery
