Reading makes me think

I got the protection part down. I watch her even when she doesn't know it...

I don't read a lot. I take that back. I don't read a lot of fiction. I read a lot.

Our small group is reading through a book called "Strong Father, Strong Daughter." The book is written to fathers about the impact they will have on the development of their daughters. It is quite fascinating. I don't want to believe what this lady is saying, but I know it's true. I see it everywhere around me. Women who did not have loving, strong, fathers struggle with things that others who did, don't. The book talks about how a father will teach his daughter about God, love, sex, confidence, security and a host of other things, just by the way he builds into her life without ever saying a word.

Needless to say, (but, I will anyway) It made me very much consider who I am for Ava. I know she needs a present father who can point her back to Christ. A father who will protect her, set boundaries for her, and listen to her like she is the only one in the room when she talks. I am not good at the last one yet. I am purposing to engage more with her in the days ahead. I want her to know that she matters. I want to do all I can to help her not have to "overcome" when she is an adult. I know I can't control that part, but I can control me. I can put forth the energy to not look at my cell phone when it buzzes at 7:30pm and she is in the middle of a story.

I am going to. It's worth it.

Well, she just got up...gonna go spend some time with her.