Why We Spoil Our Children

I'll say up front this is not meant to be a story of avarice. I will be the first to admit my blessings and give thanks for each and every one of them. That said, I bought a soccer ball on the way home from work today because we were kicking a volleyball around the back yard over the weekend.

When I gave my son the new soccer ball, his delight was obvious. It's hard to forget the big smile as he hugged the ball and waved it back and forth.

I will say, I thought I had picked out a good one. It's a red ball with black and silver stripes. It's pretty cool.

Even though it was well past time for his bath and to the point when he needed to be winding down for the night, he was ready to put the new soccer ball to good use. His delight quickly turned to displeasure with me when I told him we couldn't go outside. "Tomorrow," I promised him.

Even despite the rebuke, the gift was clearly well received -- which is why I think parents can find it so easy to spoil their children.

Here's hoping there is more joy in putting the ball to good use.