My dad was not the guy who played with you in the back yard. His playground was the golf course, a game I never really “took to”. My mom, who passed away 26 years ago, was my best friend and confidant. Dad was more likely to say “This too shall pass.” Or “We’ll get it handled.” Years ago I didn’t really want to hear that and I know he would agree with my assessment that we often butted heads. If you had told me then that my dad would become my best friend and confidant, I would have said “In your dreams.”
But things change. During my mother’s long illness we spent a lot of time together and I saw a side of him I had never seen before as he nurtured and lovingly cared for her every need. When my son was born, during my mom’s last month of life, my dad bonded with him in a way I am sure he never did with either my brother or I when we were little. Don’t get me wrong – he didn’t’ change diapers – but still. They formed a relationship that thrives to this day.
Fast forward about 20 years, to a time when my world came apart at the seams. Somehow without me even telling him, my dad knew something was wrong and stepped in to offer me the unconditional love and support I desparately needed. Along with that he threw in some great advice and even some financial support. But the most important thing he did was listen to me and let me talk and talk and talk. He always had time and was relentless in his follow up to make sure I was OK
Life has settled down for me but Dad’s support and interest in my life continues to this day. My brother Clark reports the same.
Clark and I were lucky to have a strong, loving mom when we were growing up. She raised us up. And after she was gone, our dad stepped in. She would be so proud of him. And I could not love him more. Happy Fathers Day Dad!