Tonight, my son asked me a profound and interesting question. He wondered, "How do we turn to dust when we die?" Now, how do you respond to a question like that in terms that a five year old can understand? I don't remember reading that in my "Parenting for Dummies" book. Do You? In fact, I don't even remember my specific answer. Whatever I said, it seemed to satisfy his curious mind. However, this question led to a conversation which reminded me of the innocence of his youth.
Sometimes, children's questions can be simple, sincere, but difficult to answer. Mostly their questions develop out of an honest desire to learn about the world around them. As we continued to talk, we discussed generations and how parents pass on the family heritage to their children. So, I asked him when he gets older would like to marry a lady (like his mom) and become a Dad. He said he didn't know (which I was relieved because I am not rushing it). So, I told him I liked being his dad...and he asked the famous question, "Why?"
I pondered that question for a few moments and the question warmed my heart. It warmed my heart because of the thoughts it created. I didn't think about some of the responsibilities of being a parent like changing his dirty diapers, comforting a "teething" child, wiping his face with a cool wet cloth after vomitting, or even having to punish him for wrong behavior.
No, I glanced in my rear view mirror to see the source of that simple question...and I saw my son. He looked similar but yet a smaller version of me (actually more handsome because he has his mom's looks). And as I looked at him, I thought about this is the little person that calls me, "DAD".
And my response to his question was
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"BECAUSE YOU ARE MY SON".
Enjoy Fatherhood...It is a gift from God.
