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How I Almost Embarrassed Myself Trying to Correct What Someone Said to Me
Make sure you understand people first
I bumped into one of my neighbours as I was coming back from a walk last Sunday. He was sharply dressed, all smiles. I know him fairly well. Quiet guy. Polite. Funny when he warms up.
He initiated the conversation.
“I’m a good father today,” he said with pride in his voice.
His comment about being a good father threw me. Because as far as I know, he is not a dad.
Sunday was Father’s Day.
For some, it is a day of breakfast in bed, handmade cards, and enthusiastic hugs. For others like me it’s a bittersweet occasion. My own dad was promoted to glory many years ago, and though time has softened the sharpest edges of grief, the ache never really leaves. I still find myself wanting to pick up the phone and share life’s random updates.
I, instead, celebrate the men around me – friends, cousins, neighbours – who are present, loving, and raising the next generation with intention and care. It’s my way of keeping the day meaningful.
Back to my neighbour.
After his comment, I paused. Was there something I didn’t know? Did he recently have a child? Adopt? Maybe he was…
