He needs me...

The other night Leyton was laying on my lap on the couch sleeping. In the middle of his sleep he started to get a little fussy. I don't know if he was just having a bad dream or what but it was bothering him. So I put my hand down there to let him know I was there and he grabbed hold of my finger. As he was holding my finger I quietly was saying "don't worry daddy's here." And believe it or not he quieted right down and fell back to sleep. So I continued to whisper "daddy's here" a few more times until I knew he was good and out and as I was doing that it hit me pretty hard that he needs me. Not in just the obvious ways like he needs me to help feed him and change his diaper and transport him places, but he needs me to let him know that I'm there for him and that Ill be here to protect him... It's kind of a heavy load, but I was so happy to know that in that moment what he needed what his daddy to tell him it's okay and not to worry because I'm here. I really cherish the role of his father as he is growing and developing. The things that he needs from me continue to change as he does and it's extremely exciting for me to be here during all of it and give him what he needs. Now it's just the sound of my voice and the touch of my hand that helps. Soon its going to be the touch of my hand as I steady him as he takes his first steps. Then it will be his first ride on a bike. Soon he'll need me to teach him how to hit a curve ball (I cannot wait for that day!), and how to read defenses on the football field. He's going to need me to show him how to swing a hammer and turn a wrench. But he's also going to need me to comfort him someday when that first girl breaks his heart, or his first friend abuses his trust. The boundaries of the things that he needs me for seem limitless now and will only get greater as he grows. To be honest I really cannot wait for each one as the time comes and he needs me for something new. So Leyton, whatever this world brings to you over the years don't worry because daddy's here!