Maybe Some Other Time

Our world seems to be on fast-forward.

Too much rushing around, heating things up in the microwave, and passing each other by.

I often wish that we could slow down enough to really enjoy our days. To listen to one another, to watch our children play, to admire, and take a deep breath. I'm just as guilty as anyone.

Last night, my four-year-old brought his favorite football jersey to me and asked to change his clothes. As I pulled it over his head, I admired how adorable he looked with tousled hair and feathery lashes. I watched Hayden itch his nose, then look at me with a grin that I've caught on camera countless times. Before he ran off to rough-house with his brother, I stopped him.

"Hayden, I love you. And I just want you to know that Mommy will always be here to take care of you."

Hayden paused, then stared at me with a puzzled look in his eye. Confusion appeared to be replaced by worry when he said...

"You mean you don't have a job?"

In a second, our moment was over. Hayden thought I was telling him I would physically "always be here." I explained again, he nodded, then ran off to play.

It was nice while it lasted.