Many, many, many times a day fathers, husbands and men get knocked down trying to improve the lives of their loved ones. From the challenged economy to challenges at home to the negativity delivered by the news, this world can seem like a pretty insurmountable mountain. Despite those challenges, this world can be a pretty fun place too. From the upcoming spring and summer weather to an improved economy, nothing beautiful is created without rain and pain. Simply put, don’t let the challenges of life get you down. There truly is a rainbow at the end of the storm. Enjoy the excitement and mystic in the unknown and know you are blessed and lucky to be in the special and unique position you are in. A few recent events bring this to mind.
I had the awesome pleasure of enjoying breakfast at school with my daughter, enjoying a black history re-enactment presented by my mother and a taking my wife out on a date.
My daughter’s school recently had an event for the girls and fathers. ”Donuts with Dad” allowed me to spend personal time with my daughter in her world. I laughed and ate and laughed some more getting to know her and her friends more intimately. Watching third graders crush donuts after donuts and share stories about their days in the gym, the pressure of spelling tests and laughing at substitute teachers was awesome. Viewing the world from an untainted or stressed eye was refreshing. Pressing through skinned knees, hurt feelings and punishment, made “Donuts with Dad” worth it.
Watching my mother perform a Harriet Tubman re-enactment at a local library… Words cannot describe the pride I felt. As far back as I can remember, my mother’s name to everybody was “Andy’s mom.” Well, Andy’s mom got her time to shine. For an hour my mother shared the experiences of Harriet Tubman in an hour one-person presentation. From singing to screaming to crying to embracing the audience, my mother did it all. Even answering questions for another thirty minutes following the presentation was insightful. My mother’s gift of story-telling reminded me of moments with my grandfather (her father) and depth and imagery he shared. All I could do was stand there (because there was only standing room) with my mouth open in amazement. ”Andy’s mom” left the audience touched.
Despite the hell I took her through over the years (from childbearing to adolescense), my mother and I have grown much closer. The challenges we faced seemed rigid, but our bond is stronger as a result.
Lastly, the date with my wife. I will not venture into the details of our relationship, but I can tell you, I am lucky. I love you, girl.
All of these events reminded me why I leave my family every day to create a better life for them. Most importantly, they reminded me to enjoy the struggle because there is someone who is appreciative.
