#36 Becoming a “Father”
We have P.E. activity day at school. There were races, tug of war and numerous activities in which all my class children went wild.
The last activity consisted of grouping up with your Mom or Dad and having a dance contest. The speaker requested that all children with a parent please stand up. I turned around to see all my students stand up and cup their parents hand. 3 boys in my class room were seated. “Where are your parents” I asked. ”Not here” they replied.
A very distant image came to mind. The image of my past in my High School when my parents never showed up. I remember the emptiness I had felt. Quickly I raised my hand and said “I am your father” and the kids leaped from the ground and grabbed my hand.
It was a very humbling experience. I hope it made their day better.