Why I Admire My Parents Despite Our Distant Relationship

Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, my parents were ten to fifteen years older than those of my friends. Their age and maturity brought a unique strength to our household, and while our relationship was sometimes distant, I found much to admire in both my parents.

The Heart of My Mother

I loved my mother because of her unwavering kindness and love. She was the one who brought me into this world, and for me, that was the essence of my love for her. In contrast, I wished for my father to be more involved and present, as many men often do. However, it wasn't just that I liked them; I loved them to the core.

My Father as a Confidant

My dad, my world, my best friend. While he was distant when I was a child, as an adult, he became more of a mentor and confidant. We would spend countless hours chatting, discussing life, and even delving into homeownership and maintenance. He was the only one I could confide in about his experiences in the Korean War, which added depth to our relationship. I miss my dad every day and I wouldn't alter our bond for the world.

The Wisdom of My Parents

My parents were both very intelligent and wise. In my childhood, my mother, a registered nurse, stood out at school events. She was smarter and more relaxed than before, and her ability to dismantle teachers and parents with cold logic and insight was a valuable trait. My dad, on the other hand, had a great sense of humor and would often entertain us with singing and dancing. Despite his distance, he always knew how to make us feel special.

Support in Adulthood

As I grew older, my mother played an integral role in my academic journey. In college, she helped me with chemistry, making it so much harder than high school at first. She corrected the misconceptions of high school chemistry and provided wisdom that was instrumental in my learning process. My dad, too, became my best friend as I entered adulthood. He took an interest in my life, guided me through home maintenance, and shared personal stories from his time in the Korean War, making us closer than ever.

Essence of Our Relationship

While my relationship with my parents was different from my friends, it was special and unique. My mother was honest and open-minded, always answering my sister and me with truth and respect. My father was a wonderful singer and humorous, bringing joy and laughter into our lives. Even with our sometimes distant relationship, there were so many lessons and memories that shaped who I am today.

Conclusion

The bond I share with my parents is a mix of admiration, love, and sometimes distance. While I sometimes wished for my father to be more present, my mother's love and wisdom left an indelible mark on my life. This unique family dynamics has made me the person I am today, and I wouldn't change it for the world.

Key Takeaways:
- The importance of parental wisdom and guidance
- The value of a strong parent-child relationship
- The unique dynamic of parents who are older than their peers