We are all probably familiar with the American dream.  We want to be free to live as we see fit and to take care of our families to the best of our abilities.  However, less well-known and only slightly less important to the average American man is grilling:  the other American dream.  When I attend any type of party I have noticed, and maybe you have too, that the men flock to the grill.  Whoever happens to be hosting the party proceeds to put on a clinic while the rest of us recline in lawn chairs or stand around the grill with our feet at least shoulder width apart (I don't know why, but we do) and drink in the experience.  It's soothing.  It smells good.  It sounds good.  It is a declaration that the Lord has commanded man to rule over His creation...and we accept.  Meat meets fire and it is a wonderful thing to behold. Gentlemen, next time you get the chance go out and fire it up.  If you have been blessed with children, take them out with you.  Let them witness the splendor.  Chances are they'll end up running around and playing after a few minutes, but that's alright.  The time spent with them is never wasted.  There is a little bit of Texas that, by the grace of God, I own.  There are few things I love more than stepping out there to perform the sacred honor of grilling with my kids running around screaming with laughter.  They even stop every now and then to check out the fire, smell the glory and ask me questions about the seasonings.

Make sure to take time to do the things you love with the people you love.  Don't let the things that you enjoy come between you and your family.  Let them in.  My brother and I grew up playing backyard baseball with some friends.  We made some great memories, but we especially remember the times when Daddy came out and played with us.  You mean the world to your kids.  I've never heard anyone say that they wished they had spent less time with their kids.  Gentlemen, live the dream.