Daughters and Dads

Louis S Clark
my dad
portrait of a young man with his car

The little girl down the street knocks me out. She's only two but she's going places. The question is where. She is equally at home with traditionally girl and boy things. Case in point. Today she had on a dress complete with fairy wings while she was "working" on the kid-size motorcycle her dad is building for her. She knows how to use a screwdriver and bat her eyelashes.

What I enjoy the most about this two-year old is her sweet relationship with her dad. They are totally bonded over watching TV sports, planting a garden, walking the dog, working in the garage. She is so at home in his world and he is so careful to honor her girlieness.

I was lucky to have had a great relationship with my dad. I must admit that in some ways he was traditional in regards to a woman's "place" but he always encouraged me to be me. For that I am grateful.

I have many wonderful memories of our joint appreciation of camping, hiking and other outdoor activities. I also have wonderful memories of the friendly arguments and debates we engaged in over culture, politics and whatever we could wrap our brains and tongues around.

Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there! Don't ever forget how important you are to the daughters in your lives. Happy Father's Day Dad. You may be gone but you live on in my heart.