Chavala, listen!

OK. So, I have a daughter who is nearly 10 years old and is growing mentally into a spontaneously mature, yet awkward young woman. She ADORES her mother and somewhat acknowledges my participation in her upbringing even in the face of the many sacrifices I have made for her, my wife and our family life here in Japan.

What kind of man am I? What more will it take for the one human being in this world, the one I helped to create and set forth on a straight path in this world, to recognize what I do for her? More than that, what is this investment of my time, love and intimate concentration worth if not to further the promise of a brighter, stronger sense of value within the next generation, albeit through one very significant human being at a time? I am her father. I am also a teacher to many children who readily see the value I place on their future. Not trying to make comparisons, but how is this generation of students any different than my own flesh and blood?

I have no answers. Just formulated patterns, images and instinctive intuition. My role as a teacher is very much the same as my role of father to a certain degree. BUT...a father is much more than a molder of personality and guider of life paths. He ought to be a stable force in his children's lives. His will is always directed to the very best outcome for them, regardless at whatever personal sacrifices need to be made. He has to give his wife and children the room to grow, the nutrition of mind and body that they yearn for in order to be the best that they can be.

So, if I continue to do all of that, why doesn't she see it? She's still growing and learning as well as becoming more and more independent and creative. I know eventually she will come to an fuller understanding of what I have tried to make for us: a home away from home, a fertile ground from which to bloom. I am no green-thumb gardener, but I do know a thing or two about how to till soil, when to water or not and how to let go so the blossom can emerge freely, happily and naturally. All in good time, my young lady. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you, even if it means stepping back a bit to watch you pulsate in your temporary growth spurts.

Solemnly, I pray I can strive for my best for her, my wife and family and, offhandedly, for myself as well. The day we stop learning is the day we die.