Recently, as I was driving in our neighborhood, I noticed a fire hydrant covered completely in a bag that read “NOT IN SERVICE” .
Now try to imagine living in the home near that property and a fire erupts in your house. You call the Fire Department to come but when they arrive it is to no avail because the fire hydrant is NOT IN SERVICE!!!
As I pondered this, my thoughts led me to think about this  in the context of parenting. Likely, there are many children and teens who sometimes (or often) feel this way when it comes to their parents being available for them. Do you just get so busy, doing what you do, as a result you are just not there for your kids? Is making money, being in your comfort zone, putting your expectations and wishes over your kids etc. keeping you from being there when your kids want to be with you the most?
Regretfully, many parents realize, too late, that reaching their own financial, career advancement, relational, and personal goals have taken the place of spending those few short years with the children they loved and wanted to be close to.
Parents, please don’t let your kids frequently see that imaginary “Not in service” sign wrapped around you any longer.
Love,
Karen