My dad’s life took him from the US Marines to the Navy, serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk. Unfortunately, the roar of the flight deck left him deaf, a casualty of not wearing ear protection. Our relationship was strained, particularly during the Iraq-Kuwait war discussions, but he passed away before the Trump era.
Despite being his son, I never truly knew him, boxing him into stereotypes. His financial habits mirrored mine, perhaps reflecting a shared desire to transcend the norm.
I’m unsure if I miss him or if I wanted my kids to know him. My stepfather attempted to fill the void but ultimately fell short, tainted by racism and judgement.
Disagreements led to rifts with my parents, complicated further by financial debts. Yet, it’s not about the money but the lack of empathy amidst my struggles, including my wife’s stroke and navigating my children through high school.
Support was absent when I needed it most, leaving me weary and drained. A respite would be welcomed, but it remains elusive.
