Fathers

Fatherhood is confusing now. Fathers used to bring home the bacon by themselves. Now it could very well be tofu, and most of them have help with the bringing part. They used to build the home fire and keep it stoked. Now their role is uncertain. Fatherhood used to be envied and respected. Every one wanted the job. Now, many young men shun it like the plague.

Fathers have lives too. That means work. And their work can sanctify them. Or it can devour them. As children, we don't know that at first, but we learn. That learning may be hard but it's ultimately a good thing.

A father also has duties, responsibilities, obligations. It comes with the territory. Some fathers don't like that territory so they leave. Most stay and tough it out. Sometimes they do what they do without any recognition. But they do it anyway.

Some fathers will notice you and some will ignore you. Some are as dependable as the sunrise. Some are there when you need them, and others are a thousand miles away. Some laugh, a few even cry. Some will knock you around, others will protect you with their lives. A few will smile and tell you what they used to do when they were young. A few sit quietly with pursed lips reading with the newspaper.

At first, they're huge, stomping around like the giant in that fairytale. But as we age, they get smaller. They may look at your potential with pride. Or with envy. Some give you things. Some take. A few give you themselves. A few have nothing to give.

Let's face it, they're human. Many are good, many are not so good. Most, like us, are a mixed bag. When they're gone for good, they leave behind a few scars and a truckload of sweet memories. After awhile, the scars, if there were any, are forgotten.