No More Box

One of the most rewarding things I get to do as a dad is teach my girls some of the simple little things in life. Oh sure, they need to learn to read and write. And math is critical. But who is gonna teach them how to put their socks on right side out if I don’t.

When My oldest was a bit younger, she used to struggle getting her shirt off. So I taught her my "trick" and now she can dress and undress herself with ease. Sometimes she still needs help, but mostly she does ok.

Now her little sister is at that stage and so the other day I taught her my trick. And sure enough, after a tentative start and only a little help, she got her shirt off all by herself.

So yesterday, My oldest is trying to turn her socks right side out. So she is taking the toe and trying to shove it back into the sock. So I showed her my "trick." She was impressed, of course, at having such a brilliant daddy, but what impressed me was that she did it this morning, all by herself. (of course the little one went to school with inside out socks. she doesn’t know the trick yet.)

I don’t know about you, but I get excited when I can teach someone something. And it is always the little things that get me most excited. The ability to take off your shirt and put your socks on the right way are pretty basic, but so much more satisfying than teaching 2 + 2 = 4.

And it is true in other areas too. Teaching complex thoughts, while deep and profound, are far less satisfying to me than seeing someone get a basic concept that changes their life.

So my little can take her shirt off now (which explains why she came to the dinner table naked) and my oldest can get her socks turn right side out. I am a proud daddy and can’t wait to teach them something new.