Lesson From Dad
October 17, 2011
Lesson From Dad

Dr. Laura,

Here's a little inspiration for all the divorced/single parents not dating -- courtesy of my dad.

Dad was a single parent. He and Mom divorced when I was 14 and I went to live with him. Somehow I knew I needed his discipline.

It was during this time my circle of girlfriends was becoming involved in the sex, drug and rock n roll lifestyle. I was scared, but the lifestyle was attractive and fun. And, I was influenced. One evening, my friend and I were going to visit her boyfriend. I knew he was a drug dealer. She waited out in her car while I ran inside to get my things.

There was Dad, watching a basketball game. I sat with him. "Dad?" I said, "My friend is waiting outside for me and…I don't want to go with her."

I was 16 years old. Torn apart by a broken family and not knowing how to cut ties with the only female emotional support I had. It was a pivotal moment in my life. And Dad, my hero, gave me an excuse. I bowed out gently with my friend and went up to my room to ponder and read.

He saved my life that day simply because he was at home, watching a basketball game instead of out dating women.

Five years. Five years Dad spent without a woman. And, I know for sure it was not easy for him. One day while I was doing laundry, I found a folded piece of paper. I opened it and read the words. It was Dad's handwriting…in pencil. It was a personal prayer, a Psalm of loneliness. And, it touched me very deeply. I folded it back and put it in his shirt pocket…never to mention a word. Dad was lonely, but, he never let me see that. That was between him and God.

This man is a hero. He gave of himself completely. Little did he know, he saved his grandchildren's lives, too, for, I did the same thing for my children when their dad went away.  For twelve years I channeled my Dad's firm standing, yet, quiet care.

He married a few months after me. A real sweet woman, I am thankful to her. Just between me and God.

It's not easy to be 'alone' raising children. Dad showed me why. He showed me how.
He's an inspiration.

Lisa



Posted by Staff at 12:00 AM