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The Best Dad Ever
Making Father's Day Special for Everyone By Mark Stackpole
s small stack of unappreciated presents, I became an 8-year-old boy again. I know that the kid never understood why Dad didn't open, use or enjoy any of those gifts. I'm not sure the man will ever understand it, either.
I don't drink coffee, but I cannot wait until my first "Best Dad Ever" mug, even if it turns out to be just a wonderful lie. Ugly ties? Bring them on. Heck, I don't even know how to use soap-on-a-rope, but I'm willing to learn. How about a "Daddy Cooks With Gas" apron for my adventures in barbecuing? I can personally guarantee that there is one gift out there that will make me laugh and shower my daughter with affection: It will be whatever she gives me.
Some gifts do not even have to be opened: her laugh, her smile, the sound of her voice, the way she kicks her legs when she is trying to roll over, her head on my shoulder the list goes on forever. Because of her, my Grinch's heart has grown at least three sizes, and my brain is open anew to the wonders of the universe. She has given me the greatest gifts simply by showing up in my life, and I will spend that life making sure that she knows how much I appreciate them, and her. When it is all said and done, I will still be in her debt.
I underestimated Corinne earlier when I said that she would probably not create a holiday for me, as Mrs. Dodd did for Mr. Smart. In fact, she already has. Her arrival has made me a father, after all, and that entitles me to celebrate more than my birthday this June. I have already gotten the gifts that matter the most. (But I still plan to ask for a few DVDs and a video game. Just to have something to open. You understand, right?)
So, Happy Birthday to me, but Happy Father's Day to us all. As it turns out, I don't mind sharing at all. But if we're going to share, at least do me a favor and make sure that your kids get a big hug and a kiss from you in exchange for their efforts to make your day special. It'll make you more than just a father it'll make you a dad. Maybe even the "Best Dad Ever.