Like Son Like Father

Last night my son ran up to me with arms wide open and gave me a big hug.

It might not sound like a noteworthy occurrence, but this is a young man, very young I'll add, who typically shuns physical contact from his father. Much like myself he can't stand unsolicited physical contact from anyone besides his mother. He acts like I'm inflicting torture on him whenever I pat him on the back.

My brother was like that as well when he was very young. My parents have a picture of us sitting on our porch at our little house in Florida. I had tried to put my arm around him and he freaked out and pushed me away. It's another one of those snapshot memories. I remember quite clearly how hurt I felt that he rejected my brotherly affection. He was my baby brother, barely old enough to walk upright on his own, and he didn't want me anywhere near him.

I know that I felt quite the same way when my father would touch me. I can still feel echoes of discomfort as I think about it. Knowing what I know of him now I'm not the least bit surprised that I felt that way.

My wife and I are very affectionate toward our son. We can't help it. He's just so damn handsome. He's going to be such a lady killer. He's a certifiable nut with a wicked sense of humor, and can be a real pleasure to hang out with when he feels like it.

I guess last night he felt like it.

The little guy has never hugged me like that before. It took me entirely by surprise. When I tucked him in he even told me good night without having to be prodded into it.

This has to be one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had in my life.

I want nothing more than for my son to be proud of me. I know we have many potentially challenging years ahead of us: puberty, the teens, college, etc., but I will hold on to the memory of this experience to help me through whatever tough times may come.

Some day son, if you get the chance to read this, I want you to know that you made your dad's day. I love you.