“Something being one’s own and being loved are the two things that most cause human beings to take diligent care.”
Aristotle, Politics
It was in a sermon I heard this past weekend. In describing a holy young man the priest said: “And already at that age, he noticed the poor.” He then slowly repeated: “He noticed the poor,” the word “noticed” being delivered in such a way as to be completely arresting.
I began to consider all that is implied in the word ‘notice;’ how different it is than the word ‘see.’ There are many things we see, but nevertheless do not notice. Perhaps we see the poor regularly, but it is easy not to notice them.
And then for some reason I thought of my children. Do I really notice them, as I should?
If I do not notice what is going on in their lives, who will? Indeed, how often have I missed what is really going on with them, only to realize later what I had not noticed. Later, when in some ways it was too late.
Particularly as blessed with several children, I will need to be especially aware of the one or two that might not speak up or stand out. It is of course convenient for me to assume that all is well. Whether all really is well is another question.
Yet even when all is well, a child deserves that the ins and outs of his particular situation be noticed.
The point is not to be anxious or overly hard on myself. But I cannot but think: by a natural order it is I their father who is especially entrusted with the duty, the challenge, and the joy, of noticing : noticing much that could very easily be missed. What else will have been worth my attention, if not this?
Aristotle made the above statement in the context of refuting Socrates’s suggestion in the Republic that children be raised in common by the whole community of adults. He saw that children need parents, as well as other adults close to them, who focus on them as their own, taking an ever so diligent care.
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Aristotle (384-322 B.C.), student of Plato, tutor of Alexander the Great, has been considered by many to be the greatest ancient philosopher. The Politics is his major political work, in which he includes a consideration of the household.
Husband, father, and professor of Philosophy. LifeCraft springs from one conviction: there is an ancient wisdom about how to live the good life in our homes, with our families; and it is worth our time to hearken to it. Let’s rediscover it together. Learn more.
Beautiful post. Encounters with our kids and not just transactions. Thanks
Thank you, Art.
Just what I needed. Thank you.
I am very glad to hear that, Erin.
Nailed it, Dr. Cuddeback! I especially like that you said you do not want to become anxious or overly hard on yourself. The fact that you heard the word “notice” in this special way is a grace given to you as a parent in this wonderful vocation of parenthood, and a blessed journey it is. Congratulations and many blessings on the wedding of your daughter and son-in-law. I learned in one of your recent blogs.
Thank you very much Jodi!
This is so true! THANK YOU for putting into words my thoughts on this subject! Oh, how true!
You are very welcome Kandy!
Thank you. It helps me renew my efforts to be a good dad!
You are very welcome, Pat.
I enjoy your post…
After much discerning, I have come to a conclusion that I am called to Fatherhood.
And your blogs giving me, helpful insight
Anthony, God bless you. and thank you for commenting.
Thank you so much for your insight! God bless.
You are welcome, and thank you.
Yes. This consideration was passing through my thoughts the other day too. With all the distractions and noise of our modern-day world, I realize it’s becoming easier for me to interact with my children (and others) and not really notice them, not really give them the attention they need/deserve. I was thinking of looking to the intercession of St. John Paul the Great for help in being better about being present and attentive to those I interact with as that was forever a hallmark of anyone’s interaction with him.
What a great idea, Laurel. Thanks for sharing this.
Great article, Dr. Cuddeback.
Thanks Denny. Best to you and yours.