Fathers--and the Passing Summers and Seasons

The role of fathers seems traditionally to have been somewhat less associated with outward evidences of affection than some other roles have been. As between fathers and sons, for example, there has sometimes seemed to be a kind of a code, not definitely defined, but which suggests some sentimental restraints.
It does not altogether appear why this should be so except that down through the centuries, fathers have traditionally played the sterner role, have borne the first burden of providing, and have, by occupation, been more removed from the close companionship of those for whom they have done their work and for whom they have lived their lives.
It has long been apparent that one of the grave weaknesses of our way of life is that too many fathers and too many sons have missed much they might have had in the matter of intimated companionship and of close understanding. The pressure and the pace that too many have taken has cost fathers and sons some of life’s most satisfying associations.
The years go quickly, and sons soon depart from the shelter of the home; and their going brings with it a sense of the summers and other seasons that might have been lived in closer companionship.
And not only do fathers feel the loss of the passing summers and seasons, but the children also: some sooner and some later in life, as they arrive at an awareness of things that could have been done, of things that should have been said⎯especially as they face their own responsibilities and their own problems in rearing and providing for a family.
And in their own time and generation, they learn also that the sincere thoughtfulness of a worthy son, the earnest appreciation of a worthy daughter, are rich compensation for fathers for all that they have done. As it was said so many centuries ago, “What greater ornament…to a father than a son’s honorable conduct?”
There are some deep and satisfying sentiments between a father and his family that need not be spoken; but neither should they always remain silent and unsaid.