So today my daughter gave me an Early Christmas Present. It wasn't the usual sort of gift. It didn't come wrapped in pretty paper with a bow. No. Not at all. This gift came straight from her heart to mine.
She came by for her morning coffee and donuts...which she does almost every Tuesday. Usually we chat about her business (getting Home Schooled kids to go out doors and appreciate Nature). Or books we have read. Just the gentle wandering conversations between a Dad and his forty year old daughter.
But today she told me about a comment she made to her small group of friends. They were talking about Dad's.
And the question was, what example can you give, or memory, to show who your Dad is - in some way.
So Kevina said this:
"My Dad is terribly afraid of Heights. He is equally afraid of Flying. So he got his Pilot's license. He flew from the East Coast to the West Coast, and from Florida to Canada. He doesn't fly anymore...it cost too much money. But that's my Dad, scare him, and he takes it head on."
And so, I never really thought of it as a big deal. It was one of the most challenging things I have ever done. I used to tell my friends back in the 80's and 90's, who were going through a Divorce, to learn to fly. When you first start on your Private Pilot's license, there is no room for any other thoughts except flying the darn plane. You are in 3 dimensions, and gravity and inattention are just waiting for you to make a mistake.
I am still scared of Flying. And of Heights. But I am no longer scared about what my daughter thinks of me...she thinks I am fearless when facing my fears.
And what a gift that is to give someone.