one day when i was in the third grade, my mom was out of town and my dad was left to the task of getting me ready and taking me to school. a rare and exciting adventure. we managed to make it out the door in a timely manner. as dad came up to the drop off spot, it was at that time he had the chance to really observe what i was wearing. third grade being about the time my spark in all things sports and soccer was initiated, i was wearing my brand new adidas bright red warm up jacket with classic white stripping my front and my name embroidered in the corner, in accompaniment to the jacket were dark maroon spandex and a cream t-shirt. in an inquiring tone, dad says, "Don't you think you are clashing a little bit?" In mid-leap out of the car, i stopped tilted my head and asked him what he meant by "clashing". Dad then proceeded to explain to me in a clear and concise manner what clashing meant. i nodded to show comprehension, then after a brief pause, i smiled and continued to bound onward to school still satisfied with my color combination.
it is there you see the difference between mom and dad. while mom would force me to change or explain the proper social standard (inwhich i am grateful as well), dad used the situation to teach a concept, after which i was left to continue making decisions on my own colorful path, both of us simply satisfied with the exchange of knowledge and efficiency of our relationship.
a man who acquires and maintains respect, love, trust and a sense of humor is special. dad is special and i am lucky.
