End of the World as We Know It: Husbands/Fathers Surviving ‘Bizarro World’

I’ve spent the last 10 years working with high school and college students, and the number one thing they desire from their parents is time. Yes, they act like they don’t want anything to do with their parents, but truth is they just want to be listened to. They want mom’s and dad’s input. Take time every day to hang out with your family. As adults, we have a million things on our “to do” lists, but some of those things can wait. Your kids will remember the time you spent with them and treasure it forever.

Here is my fourth and final piece of advice — be charitable. We all live in communities where there are people who are less fortunate than we are. They need a helping hand. Collecting food, clothing and other items for families in need will teach your children to value what they have and to love their neighbor as themselves. It will bring your family closer together and give them a sense of pride for their community. When they grow older they will begin to look for an answer to the problems in their city instead of looking the other way. Charity builds character.

I know it’s crazy out there. I feel overwhelmed at times, too. But I always turn to these few things to set my mind at ease. My family means the world to me. I want to make sure they are safe. Bizarro World may be here for a while, but as for me and my house – faith, preparedness, family time and charity will be our peace of mind.

Mic Cox is a long time youth pastor and tech wiz who has studied Jesus, Church Planting, Theology and Hillbilliness at the School of Hard Knocks and University of Life. He lives in Parkersburg, West Virginia with his wife Lindsay and daughter Audrey.