…like CARS! Okay, so this is going to sound pathetic and sad but I don’t really care about cars at all. I really know anything about them either. I’m interested in computers and theatre. I’m not really even a sports guy. Today, though, I did something I’ve never done on a car before and I’m going to brag about it. I changed… the AIR FILTER! (I told you this was going to sound pathetic.)
Now before you start decrying my manhood I would like it to be known that I’ve build a number of theatrical sets, used a variety of tools (electric and man-powered), hand-built a wine rack, and I make a variety of small fixes around the house. So I’m not an illiterate when it comes to tools. It did get me thinking though: What am I going to pass on to my son?
My son may get the joy of “pretend” from me. He may get some musical skill (or at least enjoyment and appreciation). He’ll likely pick up some computer skills and an appreciation for art. He won’t, probably, get any “car” stuff. This doesn’t particularly bother me because he’s got family.
He’ll be surrounded by family who will help him acquire these skills that I can’t provide. Both of his grandfathers have an understanding of money. One of them loves sports like football and basketball and the other loves hunting. His grandmothers will have all kinds of useful advice and will teach him to be loving, kind, and empathetic. He’ll have mechanics, hairstylists, bankers, managers, teachers, doctors, and any number of other helpful occupations yet to be seen in his uncles and aunts.
Even though I succeeded today in changing an air filter I will probably never restore an old car, play a professional sport, or run a company. What I will do, I will do well. My son will be who he wants to be regardless of my interests and hobbies. I’m very happy that he has lots of people who love him and will teach him a great number of things. He’s a lucky boy.