Wisdom of Our Fathers
Chapter One
Small
Moments
"In the years when my parents were broke, Dad would give Mom a daisy for each year they were married."
-Donna Pizzolongo, daughter of George E. Raboni Sr.
Small moments? It's often those little gestures-a knowing look, a pat on the back, an unexpected kindness-that make a big impression and shape our favorite memories. When I came home from college to visit, by the time I woke up in the morning Big Russ had already cleaned my car inside and out (windows too) and filled up the gas tank. I once realized too late that I had left behind evidence of a spirited evening the night before, but Dad was nice enough not to mention it.
Dad's small moments weren't limited to me. When one of my sisters had a hard time, especially after breaking up with a boyfriend, Mom would console her, of course, but Dad would be there too, trying to change the subject-often with some good humor. He didn't always know how to comfort his daughters, but he always tried, and they appreciated his efforts.
As a new father, I looked forward to providing some small moments for my son, and I hope there have been many. I ... read full excerpt from: Wisdom of Our Fathers ebook