An early Father's Day present

A couple days before Father’s Day, I was early for an appointment. I’m always early. It just so happened to be at a company where my son works.

Might as well use the facilities off the lobby. As I was addressing the porcelain edifice, another man entered. After a few moments, he asked, “Are you Mr. Dorfman?”

Kind of a breach of restroom protocol, so I didn’t react immediately. Not like you can face the person or offer your hand. “Yes,” I finally murmured.

He introduced himself as the CEO of the company. “I guessed that because he looks like you.” Lucky him. “He’s quite a young man.”

“Yes, he gets a lot of that from his mother.” Fortunately for him.

“I have two children and I just hope they turn out that well.” An early Father’s day present.

I am grateful about how well my son and daughter have turned out, but they are my kids. It’s always a delight to receive unsolicited affirmation, which does occur with both of them.

Like many, I became a parent before I had fully matured. Some question as to whether that has yet to manifest itself. It’s always more than you think it will be. And, you’re never sure if you’re doing the right thing. You’re quite certain you’re neighbors aren’t with their offspring.

Things always vary from plan and you experience guilt. To be a parent is to feel guilt. Marketers know this and capitalize upon it. Encyclopedia sales have been notoriously based upon this. You owe to your child, don’t you? This is one of those opportunities you have to know for sure you’re doing the right thing for your child. Anti-cavity toothpaste and other genres also apply this tactic.

But, nothing is finite with parenthood, so you just do your best and hope for the best. And, sometimes, someone tells you that you did a great job. An early Father’s Day present.