Catholic Dads

As a dad, much of the day to day is leading by example, teaching by words and deeds, and reinforcing virtuous behavior while gently correcting bad behavior (sometimes not so gently, but that has it’s place, too!)

From time to time, I wonder if the teaching and leading and reinforcing ever takes hold in their heads and hearts, especially since I seem to repeat myself: “Say thank you”; “Be kind to your brother”; “Forgive your brother”; “STOP PUNCHING YOUR BROTHER!!”

Every once in awhile, and quite often unexpectedly, I come across evidence that yes indeed, the lessons are being learned, that the roots are beginning to take hold with fragility. Like a consolation from God, I’m reassured that the hard work is worth it.

Which is what happened tonight. I was throwing a load of the boys’ laundry in the washer, and checking their pockets for items that can wreak havoc on a washer – anyone who has found Sharpie’s a rinse and spin cycle too late, raise your hand!! In my younger son’s pockets, I pulled out a collection of folded papers, which I knew were notes passed among him and his friends. Now, I don’t advocate note-passing, and normally I would mention this to him. But not this time.

Here’s what the largest of the notes read (verbatim, word for word): “Conner, I am very sorry I joined the club it was the wrong thing to do I quit the club today and the second day the name was changed to fish eggs. I hope you acept my apollage Your Friend Jeff D.” On the opposite side was written in pencil: “To Conner From Jeff” And in pen, just below that, was simply printed: “I exsept”

I’m not sure what the club was originally named, and I won’t ask. It’s enough to know that my younger son had learned that hurting a friend’s feelings was wrong, that he had to make reparations and then ask for forgiveness. I am encouraged.

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