Three Generations and a Window
On Friday Ray and I had an opportunity to observe men of three generations who work together. They include:
A father—I’ll call him Dan.
Dan’s two sons—I’ll call them Mike and Frank.
Mike’s son—I’ll call him Scott.
At one time, Dan, Mike and Frank were all in their prime. Each was gifted and accomplished at what they do together. Young Scott grew up watching and soaking in their accomplishments and now he excels at what they do also.
The years have taken their toll on Dan. He is still able to do a great job on occasion, but sometimes his efforts are greatly lacking. Sometimes those efforts even get in the way of the task at hand and even make the team effort more difficult.
Certain life circumstances and health issues have also limited Frank’s once great abilities. Though Dan and Frank have in the past devoted themselves faithfully to the endeavor these three generations do together, they aren’t able to do that now.
Today Mike and his son Scott carry almost all of the responsibility to keep the family effort going. They do this faithfully and with joy, even though some days are really tough.
After observing this foursome at their craft on Friday, I encouraged Scott to keep working with his dad. He responded with a huge smile. I told Mike how very much I admire what he is doing.
“I know it’s a window,” he said.
Some people would say that Dan and Frank are holding Mike and Scott back. However, Mike believes that helping his dad continue to do what he loves is greatly increasing the quality of his dad’s life, so he keeps on keeping on while the window is open.
May God grant each of us the wisdom to see all of our windows, especially those of our children, our parents, and our siblings.
So teach us to number our days,
That we may present to You a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12