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Why Fathers Call Me for Help Dealing With Their Sons
The Trouble Between Fathers and Sons
There are times when fathers and sons don’t get along. My father was a hero to me, and there were times I thought he was a fool. But what I’ve learned as a father changed my life over the last 32+ years.
Another father called me today. I’ll call him Steve. We’ve been friends for more than thirty years, even though we don’t see each other often.
My phone rang early, just after 6 a.m. Like every early morning, I was writing. I answered because Steve is a dear friend.
“Steve, what’s up? Long time no talk. You’re calling early.”
“Hey, Cliff. Yeah, sorry. You got a minute?”
Steve is somber. Today, his mellowness is sad. I’m all ears.
“For a brother from a different mother like you? You bet. What’s up.”
“I wanted to reach out and see if it’s okay to talk with you about our son. We’re having some problems, and I know you’ve had your fair share. Would it be okay to talk about it with you when I have more time? I just wanted to call you now on my way to work and make sure you’d be good with it.”
“Okay? Of course, I’d be okay. I’m always here for you, especially when it comes to this. Nothing is more…