by Pat Darnell
Brother Dave has a new grand son born in Southern Illinois. It happened on Friday, the 18th, June, 2010. My daughter just called to wish me a Happy Father's Day. Why, in these times, does that sound like an indictment? I'll tell you why.
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Trouble* is never over for fathers, and step-fathers. That does not ease your path to having children who have more children. The role fathers play is never a fixed asset, never a particular way, and certainly never finished. You, my band of fathers and brothers, are each a work in progress.
Now as your eyes glaze over, your neck stiffens, and your heart turns to stone, I want to make it clear: power up because it is only just starting. There is much work to do. There are many banquets to prepare, transactions to honor, and battles to be fought.
Where is the wealth in an ocean of emotional retribution? It is spread out -- that's where. And what offence of mine do I do that deserves punishment? Simple answer: It isn't punishment.
A wise person once said " ... Show me a contented man and I will show you a catastrophe in the making. ... "
A man is what a man does. If you agree with that then the best source of joy for us fathers of brothers is to count our blessings.
If you are a man with a special craft that you can teach, that is a blessing.
If you are a Grandfather for the third time, that is a blessing.
If you have kept a soft heart despite it all, that is a blessing.
If your Dad is still around, puttering and growling, be blessed.
If you recovered from illness or injury -- ditto.
If you have been in love -- say no more.
Anyone have a blessing in their lives? And while you think that one over I provided some shuffling Pribek music for you to get your toes tapping, and get your song bird on.
Happy Fathers' Day, Pop.
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