We all are confronted with the question "what is my purpose?"   Finding a place in the reality we are confronted with is often perplexing.  This was the case for me, until our children entered the world.  It became clear to me my purpose was to become the best father possible.  To provide for them, to teach them, as I was taught, and to protect them and then; to wonder at their beauty and growth into adulthood.

With the new year upon us, it is a good time to reflect on how our parenting in 2010 fared?  What worked, what can we improve upon?  For me it was bittersweet.  Bitter that my 20 year old son, who was (is) so amazing, so beautiful, died suddenly from bacterial meningitus - the worst disease  imaginable.  Sweet in that his memory lives on, his spirit still engulfs me - sustains me through the grief.  Sweet also is that I still have my daughter, who is now 23 and becoming a wonderful young adult; so independent and grounded.

This year I plan to honor my son through how I live my life and by sharing his wonderful memory with anyone willing to listen.  I plan to be there for my daughter as she confronts her own searching for her life's purpose.

What is your story?  Were are you with your child, or children?  To me, having a family is the only game in town worth playing.  If you are with me, if your children too are central to your purpose here on this Earth, then I think the new year will also find you asking yourself "how can I meet this purpose in a better and more constructive way.  I would love to read any comments on your reflections in the comment section, it is important to me to confirm this hearfelt belief of purpose = parenting.

Best to you in 2011.