A Father’s Day Wish
June 22, 2009
He is does not initiate conversation anymore; as often as not, he sits quietly and alone. He goes to bed early - too early - as if he is tired. Perhaps he is only bored - or frustrated.
This recent Father’s Day, I returned to my parents’ house after a lovely day of dining and touring with my folks. My brother, who now shares our original childhood home with our parents, was working on his daughter’s car in the driveway. “Need help with anything?” my father asked of my brother, with a wistful tone to the inquiry. I could see how much he would have loved to assist, if only his wasted eyesight would allow him to see better, and his beleaguered body had better balance and strength. The will was there - so evidently there - but the “way” was not. I wished that my father could again be the “master of all” that I once believed him to be.
As difficult as the aging process is for anyone, some studies are showing that it is generally more psychologically challenging for men . Essentially, it’s the old “they refuse to ask for directions” thing.
Make every day Father’s Day; pay attention to his needs - even if he wont ask for your help, he might appreciate your time and effort.
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