Happy Father’s Day
I was about thirteen and I was at the golf course with my dad. We were going golfing with his friend, Rich. My dad was lifting my clubs out of the van when he noticed how dirty they were and commented that I should probably clean them. I told him that I didn’t know what to use to clean them. He said that I should try using elbow grease.
I had no idea what that was so I asked. He told me that Rich usually carried some in his golf bag so I should ask him for it.
Later, when we were waiting to tee off, my dad said, “Eric, didn’t you want to ask Rich for something?” I proceeded to ask him if I could borrow some elbow grease. He looked at me strangely and I proceeded to say, “My dad told me that you carry some in your bag.”
Then Rich understood that I had been set up. Knowing my dad, he wasn’t surprised. This was a common occurrence throughout my childhood. My father made it his goal to embarrass his children any chance that he could get. One of his favorites was using his Donald Duck voice in public and at the most inappropriate times. And he loved to make up stories like the one above. I could think of several.
A few years ago my parents were visiting me in Massachusetts. I had some friends over and we were telling them about the furniture store with the iMax inside. When someone asked about the price of tickets, my dad and I said simultaneously, “You have to buy a piece of furniture to see a movie.” That’s when I realized it… I am turning into my dad. There was a time in my life when that might not have appealed to me. However, at this point in my life, I think that’s a really good thing. He loves God, loves people, is a great golfer, and has a pretty good sense of humor… once you get used to it.
This Father’s Day I thought it was important to let my nephews know what’s coming:
