My biggest regret in life is that I didn’t spend enough quality time with my children while they were growing up. I was so caught up in what the world had to offer, I neglected my family. Spending my leisure time drinking in barrooms was my priority. Being successful in the business world was my goal. How sad!

There was a song years ago that stated you always hurt the one you love. I’ll never forget hearing one day that no success in the world will make up for failure at home. I was a failure at home and in the business world.

Many evenings, my heart is saddened as I pass the many barrooms in the area and see the parking lots full. Inside, I can imagine many fathers, selfishly indulging in their own pleasures, while their children are waiting at home to be loved and their wives wondering what condition they will be in when they finally decide to come home.

Most of the problems we face today are the result of the breakdown of the family unit. Alcohol is one of the biggest contributors to the ruin of the family.

Several years ago, I read about Charles Francis Adams, a 19th century political figure and diplomat who kept a diary. One day he entered: “Went fishing with my son today – a day wasted.” His son, Brook Adams, also kept a diary, which is still in existence. On that same day, Brook Adams made this entry: “Went fishing with my father – the most wonderful day of my life!”

Fathers, our wives need us home and our children are desperately starved for our love and companionship.

Are you working on being a success at home?

If you any questions, or comment’s, please write to Harold Keller, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.