Robin, I felt that moment through your words—the way a single sentence can land like a soft, solid wingbeat. I’ve never experienced that kind of recognition myself, yet I can imagine it so clearly. My brothers were 16 and 18 years younger than me—only the younger one is still alive. And my late partner, who remained in her marriage, had children who were 16, 18, and 25 years younger than me. I was close with them for many years, and still, I often wished for just a little more acknowledgment, something simple and true to reflect the space I held in their lives.
So when your child looked back and simply said “that’s our dad,” I felt that sentence echo. That’s the kind of everyday miracle that stays. Thank you for naming it. You carried something gentle and wide open right into my afternoon.
my children still call me “Mommo” - I feel so much joy when they use he/him pronouns for me.i am seen and valued as I am and in my role in their lives.
I am a father, too; my twins [boy & girl] are enjoying their 26th year. Our friend Robin is a wordsmith, for sure. But words fail to convey the feeling during those moments when we hear our children say, "Dad." Whoa. Those "weightless" human moments offering heavy values worthy of gold bullion. Ha. Sending lots of Love [thinking precious metals, LOL] to Everyone. Please stay safe and healthy. xoxo From London, Ontario, Canada.
Robin, I felt that moment through your words—the way a single sentence can land like a soft, solid wingbeat. I’ve never experienced that kind of recognition myself, yet I can imagine it so clearly. My brothers were 16 and 18 years younger than me—only the younger one is still alive. And my late partner, who remained in her marriage, had children who were 16, 18, and 25 years younger than me. I was close with them for many years, and still, I often wished for just a little more acknowledgment, something simple and true to reflect the space I held in their lives.
So when your child looked back and simply said “that’s our dad,” I felt that sentence echo. That’s the kind of everyday miracle that stays. Thank you for naming it. You carried something gentle and wide open right into my afternoon.
my children still call me “Mommo” - I feel so much joy when they use he/him pronouns for me.i am seen and valued as I am and in my role in their lives.
Little moments like that turn out to be so big! Thanks for sharing. Fondly, Michael
That's a sweet and powerful story and a lovely photograph!!
This makes my heart so happy. Thank you again for sharing your journey with us.
I am a father, too; my twins [boy & girl] are enjoying their 26th year. Our friend Robin is a wordsmith, for sure. But words fail to convey the feeling during those moments when we hear our children say, "Dad." Whoa. Those "weightless" human moments offering heavy values worthy of gold bullion. Ha. Sending lots of Love [thinking precious metals, LOL] to Everyone. Please stay safe and healthy. xoxo From London, Ontario, Canada.