Tomorrow is Father’s Day here in America, and as far as I’m concerned, I got my gift a little early this year. Since the day falls later on the calendar than it normally does, maybe you could say it arrived right on time.
Last week, Kid 1 came into town, and Kid 2 came over as well. Kid 1 is still in Michigan hanging out with his girlfriend before flying back to South Carolina near the end of the month. While I didn’t get a “gift” per se, spending time with both of the boys is the undisputed highlight of my summer.
A few years ago, I wrote about how Father’s Day is regarded in our culture. My feelings on this topic loop have dulled significantly since then. Don’t get me wrong—I still think Mother’s Day is held in higher regard in this country. The expectation is that mothers get a dog-and-pony show, whereas dads get a necktie if they’re lucky.
I’ve heard the statistic that fathers are actually more likely to receive gifts than mothers on their respective days. I’ve argued in the past that Mother’s Day is perceived as an experience—a dinner, an outing, an event. The perception with dads often feels like, “Here’s a gift; now, when are you going to start up the grill?”
Maybe I’m still a little bitter, but I think I’m mostly just resigned to the fact that this is how things are. If I’m being honest, it really doesn’t matter how Mother’s Day is perceived compared to Father’s Day. I’m single; I’m not with either of my sons’ mothers anymore. Other than celebrating the few remaining Mother’s Days with my own mother, I don’t give the day much thought.
As a dad, this is the day that matters to me. At this point, I’m perfectly content making the day what I want it to be. If that means going to a baseball game, then that’s exactly what I’m going to do. I’ve been debating UWM Field, but the Tigers are in town, and I’m getting the itch to head back to Comerica Park.
Either way, I’m going to spend Father’s Day doing whatever the hell I please. That’s all that really matters. Kid 2 will be with me, and hopefully, I’ll at least get a phone call from Kid 1.
Rebuilding a life takes grit, consistency, and a lot of ‘Option C’ thinking. Having crossed the 1,000-day milestone, I’m now charting the territory beyond. The mission remains the same: No glitz. Just the work. New to the blog? Start your journey here to see the blueprint and the ‘Tricorder’ perspective behind the rebuild.
Today’s post is inspired by the WordPress Daily Prompt. While I’ve taken the topic in my own direction for the Road beyond 1,000 Days, you can find more responses to today’s prompt HERE.
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The article “Making the Day My Own” first appeared in Rebuilding Rob.
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