I would imagine Death would struggle as much as I do.
I think it’s because it means the world to me to get this right. To be the best, most present, and loving dad I can be. Imagining a deity also struggling with the same dilemmas and challenges that seem to constantly change brings me a little comfort.
Because trying to be a teacher, and a coach, and a mentor, nurse, psychologist, bodyguard, and a friend, all at once, while trying to keep the most precious thing in your life happy, well, it’s bloody hard!
It’s hard to handle every situation in a supportive, calm and nurturing way, whilst also giving them the space to learn, the freedom to make mistakes in a safe environment and the strength to get hurt and recover (which is the hardest part). I haven’t even got to heartbreak yet!
Inspired by being a dad and my wonderful daughters. Not everything featured has happened, creative license and all that.
Ever tried being a dad?
It isn’t as easy as you think, especially with daughters. Managing the day job, their emotions, your emotions, and family commitments. Then there are the intellectual arguments you were just not ready to have!
At least this is my experience. Being a dad is individual for everyone, but for me. I fell instantly in love with my daughters in a way I’d never experienced before. It was petrifying, beautiful and a challenge I doubt I’d ever be truly ready for. One thing I discovered early was that I was likely to hate their boyfriends, despite how lovely they might be.
And that is when I doodled up a little comic idea featuring Death as a dad and how he might handle meeting his daughter's boyfriend.
And Dad + Daughter was born. My homage to fatherhood.
