I remember as a young boy of nine or ten how important it was to be “cool” in front of my neighborhood friends. As young boys, if you weren’t cool, then you got “ranked” on…bad. So in terms of wanting to be a part of the gang, I get it.
Everyday of my life for as long as my children have been alive, I have been called “Daddy”. Until yesterday. This singular moment made me slightly wistful and amused simultaneously.
The Boy was spending some summer playtime at his best friend’s house. He and his buddies have been having a great time this summer just by hanging out doing the things that boys do. Basketball, swimming, and the such. At least when he’s with his buddies, they want to do more than just play Modern Warfare 2.
One of the requirements when either of the kids are away, they must call Adi and I a few times a day just to check in. So The Boy calls me around quitting time to say “hello”. However, I was slightly taken aback when he said,
“Hi, DAD.”
Dad? Who’s THAT guy? I’m “Daddy!”
My first response was deep amusement on the verge of outright hysterical laughter. I knew why he was was calling me “Dad”. Since he was around his friends, he did not want to seem childish by referring to his father as “daddy”. I had to refrain from chuckling.
The fact of the matter is- if we’re lucky, kids grow up. They change and become more independent. This is okay. This is life.
So as my son and I finished our conversation, I smiled. I smiled because I understand where he’s coming from. How important it is to fit in with others while maintaining your individuality.
Mr. Man
P.S. When he returned home this morning, he came in and gave me a big, long hug and said, “Hi, Daddy!”
FATHERHOOD FRIDAY is a collection of cool moms and dads writing and sharing stories on the joys and pains of parenthood. Come sit at the cool kids lunch table at Dad-Blogs.com
