It is a rare thing for a man to give up power at the height of his career. Yet Paul Ryan, Speaker of the House, has done just that.

Yesterday, the 10-term congressman from Wisconsin called it quits. He will not be seeking reelection this November.

Ryan told a group of reporters he is stepping down from his position as top Republican in the House, one that puts him second in line to the presidency, to spend more time with his kids.

Women have been facing the push-pull of career versus family ever since they entered the work place. Ryan is that exceptional male who has undoubtedly felt that same internal conflict and has decided to put the needs of his family first.

What makes Ryan’s decision so praiseworthy is that he is leaving congress before fulfilling his lifelong dream of completely dismantling the safely net put in place by the New Deal and the Great Society.

Yes, he did get passed his big tax giveaway to millionaires and corporations, but that was always secondary to eliminating Medicare and Social Security, as we know them.

Ryan is setting a good example for other powerful men to stop and smell the roses. What good is power and wealth when they come at the expense of raising great, well-adjusted kids? I’m guessing Ryan didn’t want to be a “Trump” in that regard.

Sure, Ryan may look back with regret at all he gave up after checking one too many homework assignments or one too many car pools to soccer practice.

But Ryan must know, like so many women who have sacrificed their careers to be with their children, your kids are only young once. The pride and satisfaction of raising fine upstanding citizens cannot be overstated.

So Elizabeth (16), Charles (15) and Samuel (13), count yourselves among the lucky ones who will now have their dad always around as you wade through those awkward teenage years.

Many are comparing Ryan’s incredible decision to leave politics to that of Little Richard who quit rock & roll at the height of his popularity in the late 50’s, to attend Bible school.

Sir, the country could not be happier with your decision.

Photo | celebritybabies.people.com