It is my dad’s birthday today and I was lucky enough to spend it with him in Joshua Tree. One of the nice things about growing up is that I get to appreciate my parents more and more. Today I have been thinking about some things that I appreciate about my dad.
I appreciate having always had such a solid masculine presence in my life. My dad figured out a way to work from home. This was partly, I think, because he could never tolerate having a boss, but it was also so he could be near me, my brothers, and my mom while he made our living. Unlike so many other kids, I got to see what my dad did for work. I could hang out with him while he worked. I watched him be creative, flexible, intelligent, persistent, and diligent. I watched him charm his clients. I saw him take his work seriously. And he was available. It has been rare in my life to not be able to talk with my dad whenever I needed support.
On top of that, he is very affectionate, fun, funny, and he is a great dancer. I love him very much. Happy birthday, Dad!
With My Dad, 1974
With My Dad, June 13, 2011
Nathen's Miraculous Escape 
June 24, 2011 at 10:46 am
Oh Nathen, much as I love your blog for your incisive, clear thinking and your concise summaries of topics I’ve hitherto imagined only vaguely…. maybe my favorites are your mushball posts. This one chokes me up. Maybe because I just love your whole family and the closeness, music, and loyalty amongst you. And also because I’m sad that — although my own sweet little boy does have wonderful, loving uncles and man-friends (including yourself) — he doesn’t have a father at all, let alone one like your dad (or the one that you will become). At any rate…. I’m so grateful that you Lesters exist and I appreciate you for this public display of affection.
June 24, 2011 at 10:46 am
p.s. Happy Birthday Steve!
June 26, 2011 at 7:06 pm
Thanks, Nate-
Figuring out how to be a dad has been the most interesting focus of my life. Even though I muddled through with no clear example to draw on, it has healed and uplifted me. Thanks for comin’ to live with me.
da