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One of my favorite things to witness from my boyfriend’s relationship with his daughter is this: I observe them connecting with each other via gaming and fitness. Just Dance is the current obsession in our home. My boyfriend and his daughter wake up at the UNGODLY hour of 6 AM, before his workday and her school day start. They dance it out together. Laughter erupts as they both navigate the waters of each dance routine. I often, stay in bed, seeing as though I value my sleep. After some time, I started to feel like I was missing out on all of the fun. As a result, I decided that I would at least make an attempt to crawl out of bed, to join them. Admittedly, I have not been blessed with coordination skills but that doesn’t keep me from trying. More laughter ensues seeing as though all of us seem to flail and flop as we do our best to keep up with the moves flashing across the screen. Song after song, fun set in. I finally opened my eyes to see what all of the hype was about. I am so glad I did.
Cultivating the Bond
I watched in merriment as they danced their precious hearts out. My boyfriend’s intention to maintain closeness with his daughter is so admirable. He let his daughter be center stage in our living room as he took up the role of back up dancer willingly. Side by side, they would dance to the groove of the beat. My boyfriend would take his daughter’s hand and lead her through the salsa with grace. I watch them both smile, find their groove and act silly together. Dancing has become a shared experience for them, to spend time together before their respective days begin. My boyfriend looks forward to this sacred time together with his daughter. While watching them, I reflected on what life was like when I was a little girl with my father. Sweet memories of feeling like princess, savoring every talk, hug and silliness still brings me to tears of joy. I realize that I am so fortunate to have a strong relationship with my father. Therefore, it gives me great pleasure to see my boyfriend love on his daughter and be present with her.
What I learned:
The quality of our relationships are vital to every fiber of our being. Forging deep and intimate connection is part of our purpose here on earth. You make time for what is most important to you. My boyfriend creates the time to spend with me, his daughter and everyone else who is in his world. If someone isn’t high on your priority list, you’ll find an excuse. Don’t be this person. There is so much power in showing up for the ones that you care about. Don’t let the barriers of connecting, get the way of your relationships. Be intentional. Honor your sacred time. Show the ones that you care, that you value them. Lastly, I want to encourage every parent reading this: your children just want to spend time with you. It doesn’t have to be Just Dance, it could be a game that they are into, or a favorite food. Whatever you do: connect, connect, connect. Your kids will thank you later.
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