I invited my kids to come out to run some errands with me. The boys opted out to be at home, each hooked to their games. Not a problem for me. I believe it’s the same reason a man can be alone fishing by himself for hours.

Agbenu quickly chose to come with me. Is it because women are more open to deeper relationships? I don’t know, but we’ll soon find out.

As we got close to the store that we were headed to (already far off from home), I suddenly recalled that I didn’t carry our club membership card.

While I contemplated the best route back home from where we were, Agbenu said:

“I think we should pick up mom’s order since it’s not so far from here. That way, we won’t have to bother about it after we pick up our card from home.”

Me: “Thank you, mama. That’s a smart decision.”

Agbenu: “You’re welcome.”

On our way to picking up Sweetheart’s order, we stopped for a drink. After my initial sip, I said: “This is so refreshing!”

With eyes closed, smiling, and continued sipping, she replied: “Mhmm!”

Me: “Let’s take a picture of this moment.”

Agbenu: “Sure! Are you going to use it in the story where I said I don’t want to grow up?”

Me: “Oh yes, I can. But today is another story of its own.”

Agbenu: “Sounds good!”

Me: “Yep!”

Afterward, we picked up Sweetheart’s order, went home, and got our club membership card for the store, then went back out and completed our shopping. In the process, we engaged in father-daughter discussions, covering several areas. I seized the opportunity to commend her willingness to serve and help whenever called upon. Then I reminded her of the rewards lined up for her and encouraged her to keep up the good work. I just edified her.

On our return home, we stayed briefly in the car in our driveway, then I said:

“Thank you, mama, for coming with me. Your suggestion that we get mom’s order first was awesome.”

Agbenu: “Mhmm! I came because I wanted to spend time with you!”

Then I hugged her and said:

“That’s so good to hear mama. I love spending time with you too.”

Her saying she wanted to spend time with me is another validation of one of the principles that guide my fatherhood, which is to be present! With being present, everything else falls in line, even without having things planned out.

Here is one of my models for being a present father:

…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. 

Matthew 28:20.

• 11/24/20