It's a Two-Way Street

by Tom Mayer

One of the main reasons most of us spend so much time with our children is that we see the effect we have on their development. What we sometimes miss, however, is the tremendous impact this interaction with our children has on our own lives and development. The lessons taught during the time we spend together are delivered on a two-way street. This is what Marc Parent has realized, and he wonderfully relates some of the lessons from his time at home with his sons in Believing It All: What my children taught me about trout fishing, jelly toast and life.

Initially I was interested in the book because it was written about the experiences of an at-home father. Being an at-home dad myself I thought that the book would provide me with insights specific to what it is like to be an at-home dad, as well as tips about how to overcome the various obstacles associated with the job. I did find this kind of information in the book, as I expected, but I was pleasantly surprised to find so much more--this book has something to offer all parents.

The experiences the author shares with us take place in the area surrounding his rural western Pennsylvania home. He and his family have moved there from New York City to find a slower pace of life. It is this new environment that becomes the classroom. When his boys ask him direct questions about things such as death, God and even angels, Marc finds that he must first struggle within himself to understand what he believes. By seeing things from the simple perspective of a child, Marc comes closer to understanding some of the most complicated mysteries of life.

This book has helped me realize that the time I spend with my children is not only a time for their growth and development, but for mine as well. I was already aware that becoming a father had increased my capacity to love, and my ability to be patient with others. Now, following Marc Parent’s example, I can be open to the other lessons that are right in front of me. All I have to do is slow down and see them.

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