Always enjoy the company of those you love

As I walked out to my truck, I could hear the scampering of little feet behind me. I turned to look and watched as my child scurried to the passenger side of the vehicle and began climbing in. Once securely inside I asked my daughter what she was doing. Without hesitation, and never looking up, she secured her seat belt and said, “Coming with ya, Dad.” I explained that I was wasn’t going anywhere in particular and my journey would not be exciting so if she preferred to hang out at home, she was welcome to. As she looked up, I could see her beautiful bright eyes glimmering in the light as she began responding to my offer. With a smile affixed to her face, she simply said “It’s OK Daddy, I just like being with you.”

As we traveled down the road with no particular destination in mind, we laughed, we joked, and we sat in silence, taking in the beauty of the area and each other’s company. As a breeze of contentment flowed over me, I couldn’t fight back the emotion of happiness for being so overly blessed in this life. The entire scene was reminiscent of many years prior when as a young father I was asked to coach my local high school varsity basketball team. At that time working full-time, engaged in extra duties within the departments specialized teams, and raising my eldest daughter seemed to fill my days and nights. Being faced with the opportunity of coaching, I couldn’t refuse. The position added to my busy schedule but created within itself an avenue of enjoyment and accomplishment.

I remember all the late nights and weekends spent practicing, attending camps, and traveling to games. At the time, time seemed to be passing by faster than my team could make it down the court. Being young, I failed to recognize that adding things to my schedule many times took away from other aspects of life. Before long, my daughter began “tagging along” as the team did what teams do. Refusing to let dad go at his newly found job alone, she explained that I always needed to know that someone in the family supported me and her being there was proof. I remember looking down as my daughter lay sleeping, while the team bus traveled down the road, returning from a tough loss. It was then that the entire concept of commitment became cemented in my mind and soul.

Life carries with it many opportunities. Opportunities to serve, expand and move forward accomplishing great things along the way. We can excel and become the richest, most proficient person in town, never leaving any stone unturned, but if we forget the true value of commitment we are lost. For it is in the silent smiles, gentle touch, and simply being with those we love and care for that we will find true solace. Find that person you simply want to be around and revel in the enjoyment of each other, my friends. This is where you will find fulfillment and true contentment.

Richard J. Stephens lives in Carter County and is the father of three little ladies ranging in age from eight to 29.