Together Everyday

When I was younger, my Dad and I would stake out a few Saturday’s just for us- our Kaitie and Daddy days. No Mom, no brother, just me and Dad, together.

I would wake up early, then run into Mom and Dad’s room and jump on the bed until my Dad woke up. We would amble into the living room half asleep, plop on the couch, and watch re runs of The Little Rascals. When I became bored with that, out came the blocks and soon we had constructed castles built for royalty (or so I thought).

For breakfast we went to “Mickey Dee’s,” where I would chatter endlessly about what we would do for the rest of the day. After our “big breakfast,” we headed to the park or beach close by. For an hour or so he would push me on the swing, watch me on the slide, and help me feed the ducks.

The rest of the day could consist of different things. Sometimes it was as exciting as cleaning the house, other times it was as dangerous as building a swing in the backyard from a high branch.

The thing is, it didn’t matter what we did or where we went, as long as it was he and I. Daddy and Kaitie. Hanging out. Together.

Now that I’m growing up, the Kaitie and Daddy days have become few. Schedules are busier, the hours seem shorter, and sometimes we find ourselves saying, “OK, in a minute.” A minute comes and goes, and soon 10 minutes have gone by, followed by an hour that has passed. However, we both know how precious time is, any time, so time is made. Now instead of going to breakfast we’ll make dinner together, or he’ll help me with homework. My endless chatter still continues, except now it’s progressed into talks about school, friends, and boys. Whatever I’m happy about, he hears it. Whatever I’m having problems with, he hears it. Whatever is troubling me he knows it all. Somehow the problem that seemed like a big deal when I was younger is now small, and not something to stress over. The thing that was joyous is now even more so, because he’s happy too. As we laugh and joke, it’s just like old times. Daddy and Kaitie. Hanging out. Together.

In the same way, it is even more important to have Kaitie and Daddy days with my other Dad, my Father, Jesus. I call this time, prayer.

Everything remains the same. We spend time together. We talk about what has happened that day and what’s going on in my life. I tell Him my hopes, worries, and dreams, and He comforts me and quells my fears. Everything is told, everything is heard, and suddenly all is well. Only this is better than talking to my father on earth, because no matter what, there is always an answer and solution to everything

Often, we forget how important prayer really is. The moments that we spend talking to our Heavenly Father are precious and not to be wasted. Yes, schedules are busy, and, yes, free time is limited, but prayer needs to be a number one priority. It may seem difficult for some, but there’s this really awesome thing about prayer: it requires NOTHING.

There’s no need to whisper a sound, so you can do it when you’ve finished writing that paper, even if the teacher still insists on quiet. You don’t have to move, so it’s possible to do while sitting in the squeaky auditorium chair. There’s no need to be with a group, so even if you’re home alone doing laundry, you can pray. A time or place is not needed, nor is a Bible. All that is absolutely required is an open mind, an open heart, and a willingness to let God do the work. Let go of all the world's constraints, and talk to Him. Pray.

Sounds easy enough, right? Why is it that we don’t do it as much as possible? Our generation is falling into the mindset that prayer is not required. However, if anything, it is the most important thing. We need to discipline ourselves to be conscious of prayer. Spiritually, it is one of the most critical disciplines to tune in to when shaping our walk with God. Without prayer, there is no communication with God, Jesus, our “Daddy.” Without prayer, we wouldn’t have solutions to our problems, answers to our questions, or the completion to our shortcomings.

Sometimes prayer is difficult. What do I say? Can I ask for something? Am I supposed to be happy or sad? What will He think?

The truth is - it doesn’t matter what we say! Just speak your heart, and don’t be afraid to say what’s on your mind. Although He already knows, God wants to know what’s going on in your life, how you’re feeling, and - what it is that’s troubling you. There doesn’t need to be a set time the important thing is that you are disciplined to be honest with yourself and God, and to pray.

For some, that’s easier said than done. Many teens DO need a set time and place to pray, and that’s awesome too. Others find that keeping a prayer journal is helpful. A few months after taking notes of what you talk to God about, you are able to look back and see that your prayers have been answered. The answers might not always be “yes,” and that’s not because of a lack of prayer or faith. Sometimes what God has planned isn’t what we want, but He does what’s best every time.

It’s so important, to pray. It can be so easy to brush it off, but with something this simple and rewarding, why not? The very best part is that you can spend quality time with your Dad. A true Kaitie and “Daddy” day at it’s best; EVERY day. Life for a moment is suspended, and all worries, pains, and fears are replaced with warmth and serenity. But only if you pray.

In His loving hands,
Kaitlin Carlin

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