Perception of Presence

“The Perception of Presence”

I lived a really busy lifestyle, it was go, go, go, go, go... I didn't know how to turn it off!!! It came to the point where I became my kids soccer and basketball coaches because I would have let my “busyness” keep me from going to practices, scrimmages and games. Little did I know that Eli was asking Glory, “Why doesn't Daddy just quit his job because he's never around!” From my perspective I was around, I mean, “I help coach all your sports!!! I could be still on the clock but I work my butt off to 'shift the clock' and that's why I’m not around at times.”

As a dad you may have a really busy work life and make many sacrifices just to “try” to be present but because of our “guy-ness” we act like it's no big deal but on the inside we are STRETCHED!!!

There's a saying that says, “The best present, is presence.” With all my running around and trying to be the best pastor, dad, coach, husband, community member, etc… I think the main problem was that I just needed to be present.

It wasn't until we went away last summer on vacation that I got it. I left my phone back at the place we were staying and my kids were saying “let's go here” and “let's play over there” and I was saying “yes” to all of it. My kids don't want Coach Tyree they want Daddy. I got my presents (the things I did), mixed up with my presence (the time I spent).

I don't know about you but I believe we have this inherent nature (the Bible calls it sin). This nature attempts to cause me to be prideful, to do things that please me and be slow to listen and quick to speak. Through Christ, God has to harness me and pull my reins back so I can see through a different lens.

I ain't gonna lie… I will still help coach but with God's help they will get more DADDY and less coach!

Stay encouraged dad’s! #HappyFathersDay #Dad #life https://www.instagram.com/p/BVffBT2DXYf/