I Advise You To Trust That Your Father Knows Best

Dear Modern Philosopher,

Father’s Day is on Sunday, and while I always look forward to the wonderful time I’ll spend with my children on that day, it is also a sad one for me because my Dad is no longer with us.

There’s a part of me that feels like it’s wrong to enjoy the holiday when my Father is gone.  I know that probably sounds a bit ridiculous, but I still feel guilty nevertheless.

Obviously, I can’t be glum and depressed when my amazing children are celebrating my special day, but at the same time, I just feel like I need to spend some time mourning.

What do you advise?  I know you lost your Father several years ago, so what do you do to deal with this on Father’s Day?

Thanks for your help.

A Father and a Son

Dear Father & Son,

Happy Father’s Day!  While it’s understandable that the day might make you sad, it should also be a happy one.  You have children who want to celebrate the amazing job you’ve done as their Dad.  You can’t ruin the day for them by being glum.

They miss their Grandfather, too, but right now, they have a Father they want to spoil and fete.  Let them have that.  Let yourself have your moment.

Sure, Father’s Day is rough on me because it makes me think about how much I miss my dear old Dad, as he liked to call himself.  It’s also a great day because it makes me think about him even more than usual.

I advise you to trust that your Father knows best.  He’s up there, looking down on you and so proud of the job you’ve done raising his grandkids.  He’s also well aware of how much you love, miss, and honor him on Father’s Day.

So don’t beat yourself up for being happy today.  Embrace the day and your offspring.  Tell them how much you love them.  Entertain them with tales of their Grandfather, so that he is also a part of the day.

Just never feel guilty for being happy.  Happiness is your right.

Have a great Father’s Day!  Don’t forget to pretend that you really like the ugly ties they give you…

Austin