Parental Choices

As a father to 3 kids, it is really hard to stay energized. There are always things going on and having to juggle being a parent while also staying engaged with work, friendships, health, and finding time with my wife. It’s a hard balance as it is and being sick throws a wrench into that juggling act.

I was mildly sick a few weeks ago. I had a low grade fever (which I haven’t gotten a fever in a long time). There was a lingering headache and I was tired from work. It was towards the end of the evening and my 6 year old daughter E and 5 year old son C still wanted me to play with them (while my wife dealt with our 1 year old son L).

E wanted me to help her with her Flareon Pokemon fuse beads and C wanted me to make a paper airplane with him. I didn’t have the energy to do those things, so I initially told them that I couldn’t. They were sad, but they understood.

I saw their initial reaction and it made me reconsider. There are only so many evening that I get to spend with them, so I changed my choice and told them I would. I would fold a paper airplane and design it with C first. Then I would help E with her Flareon fuse beads afterwards (since that would take a lot longer). They were excited and I struggled my way though the activities.

It was only an additional 30 minutes or so and I needed to deal with the discomfort I was feeling to show up better for my kids. I don’t always make that choice, but on that night, I’m glad that I did. It is hard when the parents are not 100% and there are no days off, but having the ability to put things aside if possible to spend more quality time with kids is the aspiration. As long as showing up for them in the best way I know how when I’m sick is better than a coin flip’s chance, I think my kids will be happy about that!