What roll do fathers play?
Well, Father's Day is just around the corner and I have to admit, over the years I haven't exactly given Dad the same treatment that Mom received on her day. Why? Because she's a woman maybe and Dad is tough to buy for.
I don't know the real reason, maybe it's because my Dad goes about his job quietly, without calling attention to himself. He's kind of a stealth Dad. He's always there when it counts. It's too bad though that it took me this long to recognize his contributions to my rearing. Following is a minor list of all that he contributed:
- Money of course. Going to work every day, putting aside dreams to fund my whims and not to mention those new jeans I just had to have
- Moral strength. I don't remember him ever acting the fool, getting unjustly upset or being a jerk to anyone
- Treating me with respect. I may have been just a kid, but I always felt he respected my opinions, even when he said no
- Taking us everywhere. My parents exposed us to a lot of culture on those arduous family trips - the true value of which I didn't understand until much later
- Spirituality and faith. He isn't a bible thumper or one of those hallelujah folks but I don't know anyone more devoted to living a Christ-like life
- Showing me what a marriage should be. To my consternation I could not, as a kid, divide and conquer. It was maddening but they always agreed with each other, at least in front of me. Actually, he still brings my mother flowers quite often
- Talk radio. We didn't go anywhere without some kind of talk in the background instead of constant music. I was introduced at a young age to a Prarie Home Companion, public radio and a plethora of "boring" talk. I still listen to NPR daily
- Always being Dad. I may have a family of my own but if he sees a need, he shows up (I can't believe you actually come to the house at 6:00 a.m. during a blizzard to clear the drive so I can get to work)
Thanks Dad - although the word sounds so inadequate. I guess I just want to say you are the best. Happy Father's Day. Oh, I promise to not buy that tie and bad cologne this year.
