by Chet Nowlen
Here lately I've been thinking about my Dad quite frequently. I really miss my Dad and wish he were here for me to talk to. I am ashamed to admit that in my younger years, I didn't take the time to talk to him and learn from him. Dad worked most of the time and when he wasn't working he spent most of his time drinking which made it hard to talk to, but I wish I had made some effort to get to know him better.
To me, my Dad was a man perceived as a rough and tough worldly man who could outfight, out-drink, and out-cuss anyone, but he was really a very sensitive and all-around good guy. I think the world he lived in was made up of worldly men who demanded a certain behavior or were considered weak. I think my Dad hid in the bottle to keep from being exposed that he was really a kind and gentle man.
If my Dad were alive today he would be 102. He passed away at age 83.
Happy Father's Day Dad!
