Because in the heart of every child, time equals love.
If this amazing experience of parenthood has taught me anything, it’s that the most valuable gift a parent can give is ‘time’.
It is simple to lose sight of what really matters amid job deadlines, housework, and never ending to-do-lists. Yet, amidst all the noise, there’s a quiet truth that shines through — what our children need most isn’t perfection, wealth, or grand gestures. They need us. Our time, and our attention. In the end, our time together—the hugs, the laughter, the small conversations—that build a foundation of security and unwavering love they will carry for a lifetime. This is a peek into my journey of discovering that, sometimes the best gift I can give in simply being there.
Modern studies reinforce what we instinctively know: spending quality time with your child not only improves your relationship but also boosts both your immune systems, improves your emotional well-being, and fosters important social skills like connection and communication. But beyond the science, it’s the everyday moments that leave an everlasting imprint on our hearts. I’m not a seasoned parent but believe my story and experience may inspire those parenting child (ren) especially daughter (s).
Our Daily Rituals: Little Moments, Big Memories
Each morning starts with a simple but profound ritual. As I prepare to leave for work, I hug you tightly. Sometimes you resist and don’t let me go with a playful wiggle, but most days, you smile and wave your tiny hands, saying a cheerful “bye-bye!” That wave stays with me all day—it’s a reminder of why I strive to be the best version of myself.
Coming home is its own magical event. The sound of my car parking outside or your mom softly announcing “Baba amaad” (meaning “Baba is home”) sends you sprinting to the door. I barely manage to knock before you’re there, flashing the biggest, most radiant smile. That smile upon the click of the door unlocking is my favourite welcome after a long, and sometimes exhausting day. It’s in these moments I’m reminded that you are my purpose, my little gift from God.
Seeing the World Through Your Eyes
Watching you nurture your dolls, gently talking to them, pretending to feed them—it melts my heart. You care for them with such tenderness, regardless of how worn out they look. Your old, weathered dolls are still your favourites. It’s a reflection of your pure heart: you value love and loyalty over appearances—a rare trait even among adults.
Your kindergarten teachers often mention how lovingly you embrace your dolls upon entering class. Hearing that fills me with a quiet pride. It’s proof that kindness begins at home, and you’re carrying it wherever you go.
Finding Joy in Simply Being Together
One of my favourite pastimes now is just sitting beside you as you play. Sometimes you grab my hand, insisting I watch you play with mini-Frozen character dolls or tuck your dolls in for “bedtime.” Other times, you simply want me there, sitting silently—a quiet participant in your wonderful little world. And this is an opportunity for me to master stillness which reminds me the times a friend would ask me to sit. He thought I always had things to do except sitting down for a while. These moments are treasures, ones I hold close because I know how quickly childhood passes and we will be missing the time so let me cherish and document these moments.
In you, I have found not just a daughter, but a true friend. Your laughter, your curiosity, your endless love, have given me the greatest sense of accomplishment a person could hope for. And having you feels I have gained a great milestone in life.
It all Begins with Love
Loving and caring for you reminds me so much of my own mother—the kindest soul I know. She misses you dearly and sometimes playing with you feels I’m with her. Yes, adults miss their parents too regardless of their age. Taking you out on your stroller through the neighbourhood has become a cherished evening ritual. It keeps me grounded, away from screens, focused on the real, tangible joy of simply being with you.
Sure, I might not have the most melodious voice when I sing “Jingle Bells,” but your giggles and claps are all the encouragement I need to keep singing—loudly and proudly—no matter how many amused glances we get from strangers. Most smile warmly, appreciating the simple, beautiful bond of a father and daughter sharing a walk, a song, and a moment. Of course, you like my versions and even their remixes, lolz.
Learning Together, Growing Together
You sometimes fall asleep during our strolls. As soon as we get home, your mom lovingly checks, “Did she keep her hat on? Did she stay warm?” It’s the kind of caring vigilance you’ll fully understand someday when you’re grown—and maybe a parent yourself.
When we watch your favourite cartoons together, I see how deeply you connect with the scenes of family love. When characters like Omar and Hanna play with their grandfather, you instinctively stretch your arms towards me, seeking a hug. Your mom jokes, “Your dad has a long way to go before becoming a grandpa!” and we all laugh, but deep down, I know that now is the precious time—the time to nurture, to guide, and to simply be present. And every time I play your favourite songs, you reach out for the ride on my back (piggybacking). I wish I never get exhausted so these moments last.
Celebrating Every Little Victory
Recently, you’ve started drinking water regularly—a milestone we celebrated like it was winning a marathon! After countless creative attempts, it was your mother’s persistence, patience, and unconditional love that made it possible. It’s a small win, but one that reminds me: parenting is a series of small victories, each one worthy of celebration.
Your mother works tirelessly behind the scenes for every bit of progress you make, and someday I hope you realize just how much of her heart she pours into your growth.
The Hard Days—and the Stronger Days Ahead
As parents, nothing hurts more than seeing your child sick. Your colds and flus—though common—are always hard for us. Watching you struggle with sleep or appetite is painful, even when we know that each small illness helps build your strength. Yet even then, your cheerful spirit shines through, teaching us resilience in ways we never imagined. You don’t like some syrups while sit before your mother in excitement to take the sweet ones.
Every night, I ask God to keep you healthy, happy, and safe. You are our blessing, our light.
Honest Reflections
Of course, we’re not perfect parents. One thing that weighs on us is the habit of screen time during your meals. Sometimes, you just enjoy the meal but most times you love the cartoons on to eat your meals. And I always tell your mother jokingly that it’s like you’re in a movie theatre/ cinema enjoying your snacks. We’re still learning. Parenting is not a set of rules to follow; it’s a lifelong journey of adapting, growing, and sometimes, forgiving ourselves for the mistakes along the way. We might not have the perfect answers, but one thing is certain: our hearts are in the right place.
If there’s any advice I could offer to the new parents and those planning to become one, it’s this:
Make time. Cherish the moments. Build memories.
“In the end, kids won’t remember that fancy toy you bought them, they will remember the time you spent with them.” Kevin Heath
Please share in the comment the best thing about being a parent esp. of a daughter.
Jawad Jahid
May 2025
