I enjoy taking my kids to their events. But I often feel like I have a different perspective on the process than most people. My son takes part in YMCA basketball. Sunday, we went to the game, and I watched some of the parents and coaches on the other team. Those coaches were really into it. They were standing up, pacing back and forth, urging their players to "get that rebound."

Many of the parents were also cheering, especially when their team made a basket. While I think it is good to push kids to learn something on the court, I found myself looking at it differently. I just sat back and tried to absorb the present moment. I especially homed in on my son, and marveled at how God designed him. I watched as his arms worked to block the ball. I watched as his little feet ran as hard as possible to get back and forth down the court. I watched as he tried to make that three point shot, and how his eyes were so focused on trying to do it.

My daughter was there at the game, too. And I felt the same way about her. She got the idea to run back and forth from one side of the gym to the other while the players were on the other end of the court. When the teams came closer to her, she would come running back to me, or would be "stuck" at the other wall. She was having fun. Maybe some parents thought she shouldn't be running back and forth. For me, it was another opportunity to simply sit in the moment, and drink in the wonderful creation that she is. It's amazing to watch her run, and to see her little feet moving.

I sometimes think we get too caught up in the process of the day. Those processes include trying to get to the game, or hoping the kids remember the fundamentals. And yet, I often think we should all sit back and not concern ourselves with this as much. We should instead realize the gifts around us, appreciate them, and live in the present moment. My kids are two of those God-given gifts, and I hope to continue feeling that inner joy by watching them.