My son told me that I'm always angry today, and it definitely didn’t create a feeling of happiness for me.

Our perception of happiness, although rooted in the control of our own emotions, is also dictated by the values we place on certain aspects of our lives. For me, my children are an extremely significant aspect of my life, and one that I put a great deal of emphasis on in my own search for fulfillment and purpose.

I grew up in a very loving family and had an exceptional father, a man whom I have a great deal of respect for, and someone I aspire to be like, both as a man and as a father. Although I saw him occasionally angry, I would never have said that he was angry all the time. So, today was quite confronting for me, and a deep feeling of somewhat shame clouded my mind.

These confronting situations throughout our lives are incredibly important as they draw out our own values and have the ability to create questioning, which in turn creates the search for answers to find resolve, to continue on the path of our choosing.

I was gutted to say the least when my son said this to me, but it was a moment of realization that I may not be conducting myself the way I truly wish to. I don’t want my children to feel that way, and I don’t want to be that Dad. Although, other aspects of my life that I put values on like firmness and structure within the household may somewhat contradict this to an extent. I know I need to take a step back, reflect, reevaluate my position, and look to improve.

Realization that creates reflection is a blessing in disguise. One that can have a subtle, yet profound impact on the search for happiness.

Thanks,

Dean