Fatherhood On the Sidelines

My daughters are such a God send.  I'm thankful everyday.  They are absolutely anointed by Jesus and all the gifts He has graciously given them. Recently, they were brave enough to try out for the school play, 101 Dalmations.  They both auditioned and they were each picked for a part. One daughter was chosen to be an innocent dalmation named Penny and my other daughter was chosen for the part of the dreaded Cruella De Ville. They worked alongside some great students and led by some great teachers. For 6 months, they worked diligently together to put on a memorable show!  

Penny and Cruella De Ville

As a father, I learned that my daughters are learning everyday on growing themselves to be better than they were yesterday.  I think many times, as adults, we tend to say we know more than they do.  And obviously, we do!  We do know more and we are to guide them.  

    HOWEVER, we also have to step back, put away our pride, and look in awe of how much they know as well. For example, I was never a thespian. I took several classes on acting (for fun at the recreation center and for a college credit) and I have participated in little classroom plays. But the scale of this play was much grander than I have ever tackled in my life (young and adult life).  So there you have it.  They have experienced something I have never experienced. Being a part of a play that pushes them, tests their patience, tests their perseverance... etc.  It was a wonderful feeling having them tell me all the ins and outs of backstage gossip and hard work. 

    The practices were also very cumbersome. Many times, they were scheduled before school. Just thinking about it: they had to wake up at 6 A.M., eat breakfast, and get ready.  Practiced started at 7 A.M. sharp! It was encouraging to see them get up in the morning and get there on time; ready to go!  

I am writing this because I am hoping one day, they can read this and see how far they have come. From humbling beginnings of church volunteering (VBS) to this new experience opportunity of 101 Dalmations, the many experiences of life has been plentiful so far. They certainly approach life with a great start. 

Without any surprise, the whole production was a success. They really knocked it out of the park.  They made many parents proud!  Many kids looked up to them!  And quite frankly, I prefer this over any New York City Broadway play. Obviously it is because they are my kids that I say that.  But, there is also a greater admiration I can embrace. The admiration that God led them, they listened, and they took the next step in obedience to His goodness.  

Because at the end of the day, it is always for His glory.  And to see a team that glorified Him through prayer and togetherness, makes the play even better. And to see my kids following God's calling, makes fatherhood all worth it....even on the sidelines.