Diving down deep then climbing back out

“Will you still be the same Daddy you are now?”

“What do you mean, my love?”

“Well, when you had your last job, I didn’t really see you very much…”

This time off work has been a blessing. I’ve been able to look back with horror at my mistakes and occasional pride at my successes. The luxury of being able to linger over what really matters has helped me feel washed clean.

Last summer, we took three weeks off for a family holiday. I’ve never had a holiday that long before.

We travelled by train across three countries. Our days were filled with lake side strolls, swims in crystal waters, and walks in the mountains. All powered by amazing food and evening ice creams.

This summer, we’re doing the same. For slightly less time, but with exactly the same plan.

One of the best days on our holiday was spent on the shore of the lake, building piles of rocks. The picture at the top was one of our creations.

When things got too hot or we needed a break, we’d sprint along the jetty and dive down deep into the water. We’d sink far enough to feel the shock of the depths and then climb out to warm up, dry out, and start again.

It was a brilliant day. And for some reason, it comes to mind when I think about how I want to be when I head back to work after our holiday:

I’m looking forward to diving down deep into a pool of interesting work. Lifting up some big rocks and using my skills to balance them and build them into something new.

But I’m determined to not stay down in the depths too long. I want to climb back out so I can warm up in the glow of those that really matter the most.