Posted by Matt Markins in 
We were both standing there, looking out over the Cumberland River and the water was completely still. I am sure this kind of thing happens all of the time, but I had never stopped long enough to notice that a river as large as the Cumberland could be completely still, without a visible current. Fog covered the surface. Warren even noticed that a large bird flew down just over the water and for several hundred yards just glided about two feet over the surface as he flew. It was a peaceful and wondrous site. Most importantly to me, I was enjoying it with my son.
Just about that moment, Warren said, “Dad, can I reel it in and cast out again?” “Sure” I said. As he did, Warren’s rod bent about ninety degrees toward the water. He looked up at me with surprise as if to say, “help, I think I’ve got one!” I grabbed his Zebco and began to reel it in. This was a good one. He was only about 12 feet off shore, so I didn’t have to fight him for too long.
It was amazing! My 4-year-old son had set the hook on his first fish! I was so proud of Warren and excited for him at the same time. The fish was about 14 inches long. Just about the time that Warren got close enough to get a good look at him, the wet rascal slipped out of my hands and was in the river. No, not Warren, the fish.
This is the part of the story where everyone asks me, “What kind of fish was it” but I have no clue. I can’t tell one fish from the other. But here is what I could tell: I was making a lasting impression on my son. On the walk home, Warren looked up at me and said “Dad, you’re my buddy.”
I don’t know what it is for you. Maybe it’s bike riding, playing board games, movie night, hiking, climbing, going to the park, a trip to McDonalds, or even a weekend get away, but whatever it is, do something with your kids that will give you the opportunity to connect with them personally. Our children need to connect with us on a personal level in order for us to build trust to pass along spiritual truths that will transform their lives.
Look for an opportunity to connect with your children this week. If you don’t see an opportunity, create one. Moms, Dads and grandparents, this is your responsibility. Do it well. Do it often.
And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4
What a great story! Thanks for being a great dad to your boys, bro! Since all I have is daughters, do you think I could borrow them from time to time. Girls don’t understand spitting and going to the bathroom in the woods like a boy does. Keep up the good work!