In March, I wrote a post, saluting mothers across the world and at that time, I reassured the guys that they would not be forgotten. So, today, I am taking the time to recognize fathers across the world. Being a proud dad, I am always honored and humbled by any display of appreciation by my kids. Lord knows, I try to do the best I can because I think that it's my duty, so to be credited for fulfilling my responsibilities certainly goes far beyond my expectations! However, I am grateful, and cannot deny that I feel a great sense of accomplishment when my kids tell me that I have done a good job.
Isn't it amazing how the dynamics of the relationship between parents and children change over the years? I recall being a child, yearning for my father's favor and beaming with delight at any indication of approval. As a dad, I have come to realize that those roles have reversed, or I should say - reciprocated. I, like other parents, derive satisfaction from my kids' admiration and respect, just as they do from mine. Many of us will agree that one of a child's greatest fears is disappointing their parents, while a parent's greatest fear is disappointing their children.
Whether it involves not being able to buy your kid his favorite toy, take him or her to the park, or lift them for a piggyback ride, you know - it cuts like a knife. Patients have expressed that they experienced some of their lowest moments when their grandchildren would stand before them with their arms outstretched and they couldn't pick them up or play their favorite game, which often involves chasing them around the house - little balls of energy I tell you! At the risk of perpetuating gender stereotypes, I will say that most men seem to take a greater emotional hit when they are unable to fulfill their roles. Guys, you know what I mean. It's that macho in us!
Fortunately for me, I was able to find relief from my excruciating pain. Had I not found Dr. St. Louis, I would never be able to lift my beautiful grandchild or work out with my son. Thankfully, I'm not the only dad who has been able to get back to the things and people I love! Immediately, I think of Brian Casey, Rimoun Goris, Peter Jacobsen, and all the other dads and grandfathers who have been able to experience similar joy. But, whatever your history, challenges, or triumphs, us dads share a common element- love for our kids. It is this love that binds us together, bridges the gaps between us, and sustains the bond we share. Happy Father's Day!
Isn't it amazing how the dynamics of the relationship between parents and children change over the years? I recall being a child, yearning for my father's favor and beaming with delight at any indication of approval. As a dad, I have come to realize that those roles have reversed, or I should say - reciprocated. I, like other parents, derive satisfaction from my kids' admiration and respect, just as they do from mine. Many of us will agree that one of a child's greatest fears is disappointing their parents, while a parent's greatest fear is disappointing their children.
Whether it involves not being able to buy your kid his favorite toy, take him or her to the park, or lift them for a piggyback ride, you know - it cuts like a knife. Patients have expressed that they experienced some of their lowest moments when their grandchildren would stand before them with their arms outstretched and they couldn't pick them up or play their favorite game, which often involves chasing them around the house - little balls of energy I tell you! At the risk of perpetuating gender stereotypes, I will say that most men seem to take a greater emotional hit when they are unable to fulfill their roles. Guys, you know what I mean. It's that macho in us!
Fortunately for me, I was able to find relief from my excruciating pain. Had I not found Dr. St. Louis, I would never be able to lift my beautiful grandchild or work out with my son. Thankfully, I'm not the only dad who has been able to get back to the things and people I love! Immediately, I think of Brian Casey, Rimoun Goris, Peter Jacobsen, and all the other dads and grandfathers who have been able to experience similar joy. But, whatever your history, challenges, or triumphs, us dads share a common element- love for our kids. It is this love that binds us together, bridges the gaps between us, and sustains the bond we share. Happy Father's Day!
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