Parenting is like a box of chocolates!
Parenting is like a box of chocolates; you never really know what you’re going to get! Just after my 20-something oldest daughter Morgan had graduated from college, I had a “moment of truth” - a time when a person or thing is tested, a decision has to be made, or a crisis has to be faced.
Morgan had discovered motorcycles. This is before she ever had a driver’s license, before she would gain an appreciation for cars, and before she could detect my feelings and sense of fear. However, she had the trust in me to ask the question, “Dad, will you help me buy a motorcycle?” She was confident in her decision, and yet, I was the one being tested. Heaven knows that Mom would never have entertained this question at all. This was an occasion when something important happens that tests you and yet, the universe has given you the opportunity to affect the future!
How did it all turn out you ask? Well, many years have passed and the benefits of that one decision, allowed her to create her own family with a husband, and my two grandkids who revolve around a passion for motorcycle culture. Thank you Morgan for trusting me with the original question. My resolve to say “yes”, produced Biker Chick Story Time! This time in our beautiful Oregon.
Senior Director, Technical Product Management ALM at PTC
4 年Sentiments so well put together, Ben! I'm sure these decisions helped shape Morgan to the beautiful women she is today.
Experienced leader & consultant
4 年What a great review of the challenges parents face and the way that kids (young adults) respond to responsiblity!
Thanks Dad! That's such a sweet sentiment! It's true, I never fully understood a parent's viewpoint of their kids wanting to ride motorcycles until I had kids myself. Still want them to ride though ;) It's the best feeling in the world, nothing really comes close!
Surf at Self
4 年Ben after my daughter JeRine came back from Marine Corp Boot Camp, after passing long range rifle but not shot range she asked me to get her a Glock or a Beretta and a Croch Rocket. Well I said no to the guns telling her she was over 21 and would have to get them on her own. I did not know what the hell a Croch Rocket was (a motorcycle) but when she explained it to me I said he'll no to that to because I knew as an attorney that motorcycles are the leading contributor to amputations in the United States. You have guts to do it and my hat is off to you my daughter skydives, rock climbs, off roads and has me concerned often with the exception of her driving a big Jeep something! Your Friend JeRome