I used to actually sleep all night. Of course that seems so long ago now that I can barely recall what that was like. Being a 50-something dad of a 5yr old boy and a 6yr old girl certainly has its unique challenges.
I often wonder if I ever fully considered the ramifications of fatherhood at 50. While most of my friends flash wallet photos of grandkids as they prepare to head out to the golf course; I on the other hand wish them well with a wave and a smile, while wrestling my son into the carseat as he uses the top of my head as a bongo drum.
I find myself bombarded with articles blaming older dads for everything from childhood suicides to genetic mutations and wonder if I have brought impending doom upon my children. Then there is the study which suggests that the children of older dads are “uglier” in comparison to the offspring of their younger counterparts…..(really??)
So amidst the chaos and calamity of the early morning rush; spilled milk, burned toast (and tears because my daughter wants to wear a “twirly dress” to school instead of tights) I try to find solace in reflecting on other the older fathers who have paved the way before me……such as the Hebrew Patriarch Abraham, talk show host Larry King and silver screen legend Charlie Chaplin just to name a few. How could I not be in good company?
At the end of the day when teeth have been brush, prayers have all been said and goodnight kisses eagerly shared…it is then that I feel the weight and sheer magnitude of my profound responsibility, my calling, my priviledge and my blessing……and everything else simply pales in comparison…because I am a dad….and I wouldn’t change a thing!