Mike Parry on fatherhood

Even though life and parenting feels like a sprint or a rat race, I'm reminded that life is actually a marathon. The writer of the book of Hebrews wrote: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us (Hebrews 12:1).

I'm not sure if being a dad is running a race, or watching a race — maybe it's both, but I find myself being the lead cheerleader for my two special kids. And the race has so many important markers to celebrate: birth, the start of school, learning to drive, graduating and accelerating birthdays. Our family races to church, school plays, basketball games, madrigal feasts, cross country meets, speech and debate events, and track meets (and the race is so much easier with the tremendous support of my wife).

Just recently, I was able to witness my oldest cross the graduation finish line and my youngest compete in long distance running event. I'm so proud of both. I am grateful for the heavenly "cloud of witnesses" that cheer my kids on, but here on earth, I know that I cheer the loudest. It can't be helped — I'm a dad!