The Golfing Dads
Every Sunday, three successful men in their sixties — Dr. Harold, a renowned physician; Tom, a high-powered lawyer; and Bob, a savvy accountant — gather at their favorite Southern California golf course. While their swings vary in precision, their weekly complaints about their daughters’ lives are consistent.
Dr. Harold’s Daughter: Dr. Harold often speaks with a heavy heart about his daughter, Emily. Emily never graduated high school, fell into the throes of drug addiction, and has been in and out of rehab. She has had tumultuous relationships, unwanted pregnancies, and recently went through a painful divorce. Harold’s anguish is palpable as he recounts her struggles, feeling helpless despite his medical expertise.
Tom’s Daughter: Tom’s daughter, Jessica, has had her share of troubles too. She also failed to complete high school, has been involved with abusive partners, and struggles with substance abuse. Her life is a series of dramatic crises, and Tom, despite his legal acumen, finds himself unable to navigate the complexities of his daughter’s life. Each week, he shares another chapter of Jessica’s saga, hoping for a resolution that never seems to come.
Bob’s Daughter: Then there’s Bob. Bob complains the most, despite his daughter, Lisa, being remarkably accomplished. Lisa graduated at the top of her class, went on to attend Barnard, and created the renowned “Pussy Hat Project.” She secured a book deal, produced two movies with Paramount, and wrote one of them. Yet, Bob’s grievances are about Lisa’s spending habits and lack of a steady job, which he voices with a persistent dissatisfaction.
The Turning Point: One Sunday, after Bob’s lengthy tirade about Lisa’s most recent splurge, Dr. Harold and Tom exchange glances. Harold, weary from recounting Emily’s latest rehab stint, finally speaks up.
“Bob, we get it. Lisa spends a lot. But honestly, she’s doing incredible things. She’s making a difference in the world, while Emily and Jessica are just trying to survive.”
Tom nods in agreement. “Yeah, Bob. You’ve got to stop trying to compete with our daughters’ problems. It’s annoying. Be grateful for what she’s achieved. We’d give anything for our daughters to have her ‘problems’.”
Bob falls silent, realizing the weight of their words. He reflects on Lisa’s accomplishments and begins to see his complaints in a new light.
The Moral:
In the end, the three fathers continue their Sunday golf games, but with a newfound perspective. They learn that while every parent has their challenges, gratitude and perspective can transform how they view their children’s lives. The doctor, the lawyer, and the accountant come to appreciate not just their own daughters’ journeys, but the resilience and achievements that each path holds.
