72. Over the years you tend to take stock in the ways parents influence us. I know many who eschew the idea they may be like their Dad or Mom. They may have good reason. I don’t.
Gift. Some use the language of blessing. In that regard it could well be true if by blessing a person means healthy contribution. I prefer gift.
Today Dad, Tom, celebrates his birthday. I mention his name because sometimes a person asks for my name and the minute I utter, “To-.” They have already filled in the “m.” I politely offer the “dd” and then note that it is really no bother to be called by my Dad’s name except when they plan to call back they would not find anyone here by that name.
We had lunch today. As always, Dad is more interested in what is going on with me than talking about himself. We talked about education, U.S. energy policy, and the currents in Presidential politics. No, we did not decide to run as Father-Son team for the highest office in the land. Engineer and the son of an engineer is better. You can be sure however, we do have opinions. Most of the time they jibe pretty well. Other times we learn a great deal from each other as we listen.
If grown men can use a young man’s lingo to talk about their wives – “Hot” – then, I can still declare a hearty Happy Birthday to the “Best Dad Ever.”
Happy Birthday Dad. We love you.