Something changed the day we got married. Life was joyous but somehow more serious. Parenthood instills a sense of responsibility, and at various times during the years I was an employee of the church, I felt grown up and capable on occasion, especially at moments during certain services– weddings, funerals, etc., and always in the pulpit– or in certain settings, visiting people, the occasional counseling session.
I guess I don’t remember the first time I felt like a grown-up. It might have had something to do with being on my own, holding down a job, owning my first car– pedestrian stuff like that.
Now that the grandchildren are here, I’ve settled into the role of Silly Papa. Some sort of switch gets flipped when I’m around them. I figure I can leave the parenting to their parents, though offer some advice or a bit of discipline if it’s called for. Mostly it’s indulging them, feeding their curiosity, and trying to make them laugh.
3 Cents' 