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A Stomping Joy
Watching my middle school-year-old boy wrestle with his desire for independence while at the same time finding comfort in boundaries is entertaining, to say the least. The meltdown over cleaning up a granola bar wrapper combined with the contentment of knowing what is expected of him is a fascinating thing to watch. I mean really, is it that upsetting to you that you are expected to throw the empty box of Pop-Tarts into the recycling bin instead of putting it back in the pantry? Which by the way, is right below you? Being his father, I have found the answer to those questions to be a resounding “YES!” Of course,…
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School, Dependence, and Paradox
Getting older allows you to experience things you thought were steadfast in your intellect but could never quite articulate or put into words. This certainly has been true as I find peace within paradox. Paradox: something (such as a situation) that is made up of two opposite things and that seems impossible but is actually true or possible -Merriam Webster I have always felt that paradox holds great truth. However, until you live it, truth can only find a home within the narrow confines of your mind, never being tested by the rigors of your everyday life. There have been plenty of examples in my life that only make sense…
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A Stare
Andrew, my four-year-old, loves to come right up to my face and stare into my eyes. It always makes me pause when his little body, his little head, and his little face climb onto my lap to get as close as he can. And yet, his brown eyes probing deep into mine sparks a reaction from the depths of my being. What is it about a son’s desire to look into their father’s eyes? What are they seeking? What are they desiring? And maybe more importantly, what is the father’s response? Being a father has brought many feelings and emotions to the surface. Feelings and emotions that otherwise might not…
