This act of building sand castles brought to mind the day-to-day activities of my life. In many respects, much of what I do can be equated to little more than constructing castles of sand. Sure, the castles in my life may stand a bit longer than a few hours waiting for the tide to sets in, but those structures are temporary nonetheless. Yes, the hours of laboring away to build for the future matters little at the end of the day. Accomplishments, goals achieved, deadlines met all amount to something akin to a sand castle.
The magic, the wonder of life is found in the company of those I join in to construct the edifice. The time with my daughter reminded me that laughter and smiles, the joy of building something together is the real prize with the sand castle as little more than an illusion. Whether it be laboring at work or engaging with my family in daily activities, the real prize is partnering in friendship. The gift is in the giving of ones life for others, for something greater than oneself.
I will never tire of hearing the invitation of one of my daughters saying, "Daddy let’s play…" How important a task it must be. The prize is the doing, the goal is just a great excuse.
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3 Comments
Hi Phil…
Thanks for sharing this special time with us!
I love to hear of men who totally enjoy their children as do you!
Children so need their dads … and before you know it they will be all grown up!
Warmest wishes,
jen
Excellent post and analogy, Phil. I was thinking you’d found some time away.
Ahh…they grow so fast. While you were building sand castles, my son and I were pleasantly, companionably going through his room. I guess I’ll have to write about it. Books and memories of, “Read it again, mom…” will never be forgotten.
And Brrrrrr….that water and swimming is making me cold (even though your description was lovely). It’s really chilly here right now!
Jen, Spending time with my kiddos is one of the finest pleasures. I’m too keenly aware of how quickly time slips by. My wife Sabrina and I have talked about the importance of vacations regularly in this season to enjoy them while we have ‘em.
Kelly, I would love to hear about your experience and stroll down memory lane with your son. It’s so great to hear from folks a few steps ahead. It is quite chilly here today. I think the weather was just delightful because it preceded a change towards fall this week. It really was very nice.