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.
A positive reminder.
When my daughters were in primary school, most mornings I would make them packed lunches, and in the lead up to Christmas one year, I left them little doodle notes.
They featured a little reindeer called ‘Rude’, and they were positive little messages for them to find before tucking into their sandwiches.
So you know what happened next. I couldn’t stop, even if I wanted to. Each morning, I would doodle up something. I even had comments from some of their teachers. Now, I’m not stupid enough to think my girls really cared for them, but every now and again, I’d find them repeating one. Passing on words of encouragement to their sibling.
My sister suggested I turn these into something. So I have.
