Before your window of opportunity closes

Your children will grow up fast, and before you know it, your window of opportunity will close at supersonic speed. What they want from you now is as much time and attention as they can get, and there will come a time when they won’t want it. Here is an eye-opening poem entitled “To My Grown-Up Son” by Alice Chase. You might want to take a deep breath before you read it. “My hands were busy through the day. I didn’t have much time to play the little games you asked me to. I didn’t have much time for you. I’d wash your clothes, I’d sew and cook, but when you’d bring your picture book and ask me, please, to share your fun, I’d say, ‘A little later, son.’ I’d tuck you in all safe at night, and hear your prayers, turn out the light, then tiptoe safely to the door. I’d wish I’d stayed a minute more. For life is short, and years rush past, a little boy grows up so fast. No longer is he at your side, his precious secrets to confide. The picture books are put away, there are no children’s games to play, no good night kiss, no prayers to hear. That all belongs to yesteryear. My hands once busy, now lie still, the days are long and hard to fill. I wish I might go back and do the little things you asked me to.” When Joseph brought his sons to visit his father, Jacob, the old man said, “Bring them to me so I may bless them” (Genesis 48:9 NIV). Mom, Dad, get involved before your window of opportunity closes.