Maybe your child just needs you.

As parents, we've all had those inspiring moments when we realize, in a revelatory way, that everything we do is so important and truly worth the effort. I just had that moment a few minutes ago, and I'm going to tell you what it was like. I had just put my son to bed thinking he was asleep when I heard him call, “ Daddy, come here .” I walked into his room and saw him curled up in his bed, covered with his comforter, cuddling with Teddy. “ What’s wrong, baby? ” I said. “ I want you to stay here with me, ” he replied. I climbed into bed and snuggled up with him. I hugged him and began stroking his hair, while he stroked my arm with his little hand. There was my son, calm, with his eyes closed and that peaceful expression that only little ones have when they’re sleeping. I kissed him on the forehead and thought, “ How many times have I rushed to bed? How many moments like this have I missed? ” And it was there, lying in bed, in that moment of absolute tranquility, that I realized how much my son needs me, and how many times I have ignored that need. When this little chatterbox with the big eyes was two years old, we did everything we could to get him to sleep, but we couldn't get him to stay alone in bed. He always called us and wanted us to stay with him. Many times I thought it was just a whim or a mania of his, and sometimes I felt like I was going crazy because I was so tired and wanted my own time. I needed a break. I tried many techniques, and after endless conversations, songs, stories, music, lights, some crying, and getting angry with him once in a while, this little puppy was just trying to figure out how he could be with his dad. Because that's what it's all about; he just needs me to be with him. And all my fighting against it is useless and only causes pain, tears, and regret. I know this now, and this is what I want to say to all of you exhausted parents reading this: I know you're completely exhausted, and most days you can't wait to rest. You need a break, or you think you'll go crazy. Seriously, I know, but let me tell you this: it hurts like hell to remember how you thought you needed to teach him discipline, and what he really needed was for you to curl up next to him and give him affection. Do you remember when you were little, how you wished your dad or mom would be with you just a little bit longer? Do you remember when they stroked your hair, and how good it felt? Trust me, sometimes you just need to stop the push and pull. I know there are days when there's nothing left to give, and that's okay too. But on the nights when you can give a little more, don't hesitate and do it. Sing him a lullaby, curl up in his bed, stroke his head, snog him in his hair, and tell him, " I love you, you're wonderful ." “ Dad, now go, ” he says to me. I smile, get out of bed, and watch as he falls into a deep sleep. He's had his fill, and now he can sleep. He's truly wonderful, and all the effort is definitely worth it. He's the best thing that's ever happened to me. It just needs to grow a little. And honestly, me too. What's been your defining moment? Tell us in the comments.