My Dad-He's Just Human

My Dad was center of my life growing up. I needed him to teach me, spend time with me, and support me. Looking back I can see how disappointed I had been at times. When I needed him to be there for MY purposes I did not think he was. It always seemed he was more interested in his own life than mine. I had a lot of issues with that and think I spend a lot of time trying to meet his expectations even though it did not seem he met mine. But, we did spend a lot of time together as a family. Many of my current passions of photography, fishing and love of life were inspired by him. Unfortunately we did not spend enough time together actually doing these activities. He would often go off and do his thing much to the disdain of my mom who had the 5 kids and home to handle.
Like the Harry Chapin song, I am now a father. I believe I am a good dad. I love my kids and often seek their companionship in doing what I want to do. Many times it is not what they want to do so we do have conflicts. I offer advice but will not do the task for them. I tell them to try first then I will help. This is often not appreciated. But I see it one way and they another.
I now understand more of what my dad probably experienced. it is easy to remember from one's own perspective and attribute
shortcomings to others. Now I look back and see that he was a human like myself who had his own dreams, desires and path. He took me along on his path, did try to teach, and loved me, but ultimately he had his ways. My son, now 26, regularly argues with me about things that happen with adults and does not yet see, as I  did not, that we change as we grow older. Our experiences shape us and the more we have the more distorted that shape can be from our childhood. I too now have my ways and path to follow and not always the same as my children.
As Father's Day is upon us, I plan to visit my dad with my kids, spend time with him and share a better understanding of
how we both as humans have come closer to each other and love each other for who we are.