Take this from a man who misses his parents every single day. I lament every missed opportunity to call, text, Skype, or FaceTime. If you still receive those calls from your parents, consider yourself blessed. Not everyone has that privilege anymore. Cherish those moments, for they are reminders of connection, love, and the beauty of human interaction.
Embrace each call with gratitude and make the most of every conversation. You never know the impact your words may have on someone else’s life. The Bible says: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12, ESV). Honoring is not just obedience when you’re young—it is valuing, respecting, and cherishing the relationships God has given us.
When I was living in the U.S. and my parents were in Scotland, the only barrier was an eight-hour time difference. Looking back now, I wish I had bridged that gap more often. The regret is real, because I no longer have them here to hear my voice.
That reality has reshaped the way I parent. Divorce means I don’t get all the time with my child that I long for, but I take every opportunity to call, text, and remind her that she is loved. I’m not a perfect dad, but I am one who always turns up. It reminds me of that powerful line from Mrs. Doubtfire:
“In regards to my behavior… I can only plead insanity. Because, ever since my children were born, the moment I looked at them, I was crazy about them. Once I held them, I was hooked. I’m addicted to my children, sir. I love them with all my heart, and the idea of someone telling me I can’t be with them, I can’t see them everyday… It’s like someone saying I can’t have air. I can’t live without air and I can’t live without them. Listen, I would do anything. I just want to be with them.”
I think many parents can relate to those words. They echo the longing of a heart that treasures connection above all else. Scripture tells us: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4, ESV). Presence, even in small moments, is part of that calling.
Sometimes the hardest part is wanting to call your parents for advice and realizing that the line is silent. For many of us, we wish we could receive just one more call from heaven. While I know my parents are in a better place, the ache and the regret remain.
So if you can, make that call. Send that text. Write that message. You don’t know how much life it carries. Don’t wait until regret is your only conversation. As Proverbs 18:21 reminds us: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Speak life while you can.
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