[QUOTE=tricer]AMEN Brother!! I wish more parents could see themselves in these words. Too many are worried about being "two-earner" households and neglect providing the guidance their children need. They're also trying too hard to provide a "better life" for their kids - instead of being the parental role model they need (and want). "Things" don't make a happy home with well adjusted kids - but love and nurturing do.
[/QUOTE]

Kid's are products of there parents....

"I've got a lot to do. He said, That's O. K.
As he walked away his smile never dimmed; he said
I'm gonna be like him, I'm going to be like him"

A total contrast in lifestyles: My wife comes from "old Money", the life of full time maids, limo's, and of course European vacation homes.  My dad was a mechanic, mom worked at a Circle K part time.

  This produced an intresting effect.  I am not allowed to play the lotto, lest I win.  I had to turn down a chance to become a landlord of a small apartment building for 0 down, the $$ isnt that important.  I drive a truck, Ronda insisted that I dont go to college "Your family never went to college, and one day, you will understand".

   Its now been 28 years together.  Thats a full 13 years longer than any of her immediate family.  We were outcast and frowned upon, now they all realize that theres something different about Ronda that they want for themselves, and respect us for who we are.

  And, yes, as my precious loving wife pointed out, I understand.

I could have had an easier life.  I could have had more things.  But my wife and I made a decision.  Once our first was born, she was no longer employeed.  Money was tighter, cars were olders, apartments, and later our home, was smaller.  It took me 30 years to get a basket case Corvette.

But the choice was made to have her around for our daughters.  She was always there, involved in everything, while I worked my butt off.

And it was worth every bit, every cheap meal, every scrounged dollar for every bill.  I have really good kids.  The oldest is a really good young woman.  What greater riches could one ask for?

[QUOTE=rearn2go72]I think he did Ray. I can't remember exactly what year that song was popular but you should publish all the lyrics for the guys that are too young to remember the song.[/QUOTE]

Cat's in the Cradle
by Sandy & Harry Chapin                About 1973 I think..

My child arrived just the other day,
He came to the world in the usual way.
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay.
He learned to walk while I was away.
And he was talking 'fore I knew it, and as he grew,
He'd say, "I'm gonna be like you, dad.
You know I'm gonna be like you."

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man in the moon.
"When you coming home, dad?" "I don't know when,
But we'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."

My son turned ten just the other day.
He said, "Thanks for the ball, dad, come on let's play.
Can you teach me to throw?" I said, "Not today,
I got a lot to do." He said, "That's ok."
And he walked away, but his smile never dimmmed,
Said, "I'm gonna be like him, yeah.
You know I'm gonna be like him."

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man in the moon.
"When you coming home, dad?" "I don't know when,
But we'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."

Well, he came from college just the other day,
So much like a man I just had to say,
"Son, I'm proud of you. Can you sit for a while?"
He shook his head, and he said with a smile,
"What I'd really like, dad, is to borrow the car keys.
See you later. Can I have them please?"

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man in the moon.
"When you coming home, son?" "I don't know when,
But we'll get together then, dad.
You know we'll have a good time then."

I've long since retired and my son's moved away.
I called him up just the other day.
I said, "I'd like to see you if you don't mind."
He said, "I'd love to, dad, if I could find the time.
You see, my new job's a hassle, and the kid's got the flu,
But it's sure nice talking to you, dad.
It's been sure nice talking to you."
And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me,
He'd grown up just like me.
My boy was just like me.

And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man in the moon.
"When you coming home, son?" "I don't know when,
But we'll get together then, dad.
You know we'll have a good time then."

The Cat did also sing it... And I know what you mean about tears to your eyes... I believe most of us reflect back and wish we had devoted more time. I do, but I also think my kid's turned out fine and will make great parents. Sure there were rough times but the lines of communication on both side were always open, and I think that is key. They need to know you care , and will listen. There has to be mutual respect for each others opinions.