After many years of hard work and being physically present (less than I should) and emotionally present (even less) with our children it took adopting our dog to learn this lesson. Our children unfortunately realized that my work schedule was very hectic and even at home I would do activities with them while doing work related projects, i.e. I wasn't fully there.
Both of the girls grew up to be great young ladies and having the opportunity to travel my wife and I started to plan. Freddie came into our life as a "foster dog" and the couple who promised to take him backed out. We were his 6th home and he had "lots of issues"-so we kept him as we believed that he would not have another chance for a loving home.
After having him several months, I was petting him on the couch while reading some work related material. The next thing I noticed was that we were eyeball to eyeball as he went under my arm to look me straight in the face to tell me that he didn't just want me to pet him-he wanted me!
After all of these years it took a 6 year old, rescued, mixed breed, politically incorrect 20 pound dog to teach me such a powerful lesson.
To all of the parents, spouses, bosses, clergy, health care professionals and all of those who care about/care for others don't wait for your Freddie moment!

Great. Really true.