success.
while mama is getting “prepped” for delivery, papa sits in a long, empty hallway.
on the adjacent chair, a weathered, two-year old issue of hot rod. not interested.
deep in thought? or, anxiety? both.
my mantra: “healthy mama, healthy baby.”
in an attempt to calm the nerves (”attempt” being the operative word,) i pace the quiet, sterile hall. laminated tropical fish adorn the walls. on each angel and tang fish, an inspirational message.
SUCCESS, by (philosopher/poet) ralph waldo emerson, catches my attention…and, resonates.
prior to fatherhood, i defined success by my vocation, salary, ratings, accolades, number of “friends,” blahblahblahblah.
silly, silly boy.
today? well…
SUCCESS
“to laugh often and love much;
to win the respect of intelligent persons
and the affection of children;
to earn the approbation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty;
to find the best in others;
to give of one’s self;
to leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child…”
SUCCESS.
now, i have to work on that garden patch.
mercergirl
Saturday, 27th December 2008 at 10:40 pm
i have tears…
love this.
congrats and thanks for posting this.
so true.
Matt Browne
Monday, 29th December 2008 at 12:05 pm
Congrats brotha! Such an awesome post. Well done.
Jason
Monday, 29th December 2008 at 5:26 pm
Congrats! For a man of many, many words, you sure do sum it all up beautifully with a few well-chosen ones.
tysdaddy
Monday, 29th December 2008 at 8:17 pm
Welcome to fatherhood, my friend. The best is yet to come. But first, there is the projectile vomit . . .
Practical Mommy
Tuesday, 30th December 2008 at 7:46 am
Witnessing the birth of your child is a “peak moment.” Thanks for sharing.
Jenn
Tuesday, 30th December 2008 at 8:01 am
Such a wonderful quote that covers so many of life’s little moments. Congrats on the new addition.
RENATA M. CANTORE - GROSS
Friday, 2nd January 2009 at 7:01 pm
Congratulations & May God Bless You & your new Family. You are a great writer. Thank you for bearing your beautiful soul to us.