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Hey Dad,

It's been a busy week around the Wilson house. My son Sam (12) and I went to New York to speak over the weekend, and while we were gone, my daughter Maggie Rose (3) broke her leg and all my kids decided to get sick. Little Caleb (11 mos.) still can't seem to shake it, and just a few minutes ago I changed what just might be the world's record for the messiest diaper ever!!

The "stuff" was everywhere … all over his feet, his back, his stomach, his hands, the floor … and me. Actually, I got some satisfaction from the quote, "The dad who changes diapers, changes the WORLD." Talk about empowering, although you can't always trust quotes like that. Sometimes we take them at face value … but they just aren't always true.

For example, everyone has heard and believed the quote that absence makes the heart grow fonder. But, I recently discovered that's not necessarily true. Actually, I believe the opposite is true, that absence makes the heart grow colder.

I found this out while I was away from home in New York. For three days, I only had two people to worry about—Sam and myself. Sure I checked in occasionally with my wife and I missed my family a bunch, but something about being separated 400 miles also distanced my thoughts, and possibly my heart, from the people I love most.

If I had been busier or gone longer, the logical assumption is that my thoughts would have dwelt less on them and my heart could have become even cooler.

During all those hours of waiting in airport terminals, I couldn't help but notice all the dads who were traveling on business. I eavesdropped on their conversations and although they talked about sports, business, and politics, not once did I hear any of them mention their families. You know why?

Because absence makes the heart grow colder.

That's scary, and why I've decided to say "no" to most of the traveling without my family. I know what being away from them could do to my heart … and yours, and I don't trust us.

So, Dad, let me ask you a question: does your job require you to travel or be away from home a lot? Let me encourage you to do a little talking with your wife or accountability partner and make some tough decisions to protect your heart.

Here's a new wall plaque: "Presence makes the heart grow fonder."

You 'da Dad,

© 2007 Todd Wilson. Used by permission

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