A Father’s Wishlist

My wife, Christine, sent me this article about a Mother’s Wishlist for her children. And I thought the list the author came up with was great. But, her list is from a Mother’s point of view for her son, and seeing as I am going to be a father to a daughter, I thought I would add my own thoughts as well.

So, here is my list:

I hope I raise a child that has a true desire to learn about God and isn’t afraid to ask questions.

I hope I raise a child that knows that you can’t truly love unless you are willing to get your heart broken. But, that if her heart does get broken, her father will break the face of the one who broke it.

I hope I raise a child that has the sense to stay away from the “pretty boy” and will instead go for the “nice guy” – even though he might not be the “coolest”. And I hope she understands when she brings the “pretty boy” home, I’ll be waiting on the porch with a shotgun.

I hope I raise a child that smiles and can find the humor in almost any situation.

I hope I raise a child that will stand up for what is right, even though it may put her in a tough situation.

I hope I raise a child that knows that her parents love her with all their hearts and at times, she will hate us and will say mean things, but that we will still always love her.

I hope I raise a child that learns the difference between “wants” and “needs” and can prioritize. And that when she says she “needs” that shiny new car, she’ll have to settle for that shiny new bicycle.

I hope I raise a child that appreciates good music – even if she isn’t musical.

I hope I raise a child that values time spent with her family just as much as time spent with her friends. And that her family is MUCH cooler than any friends. Especially her dad.

I hope I raise a child that isn’t so focused on her external appearance that she neglects her internal appearance. But that she should shower. Daily.

I hope I raise a child that learns to listen first and speak second and that everyone’s opinion is important.

I’m sure there are more, but, we can’t have this post go on all day, right?

The bottom line is this: It isn’t a competition on who raises their child the best. It’s all about the journey. And, as a first-time dad, I am looking forward to every twist and turn and mountain and valley. I know there will be sleepless nights and projectile vomit and crying and a mountain of diaper changes. I get it. But, I’m going to focus on the positives. The first time she smiles at me. The first time she laughs. The first time she begins to coo and sing. The first time she holds my finger in her little hand or rests her head on my shoulder.

And then I know – all is right in the world.

So, what are some of your wishlist items?