Frank,
I was mad at the time yes, but looking back,....I wasn't sure if I made my son feel guilty or not? That surely wasn't my intention and after thinking hard about it, I asked grant, (my 9 yr old son) to meet me back on the tailgate of the 55.
After sitting there for a bit drinking a couple cold ice teas, he asked me what's up? I asked him how he felt about what happened and what he thought we could have done different to change the outcome?
His response to me made me both proud and humble at the same time.
He said, " Dad, not only have I got lots to write about in my journal in school this year, but I know that you love me more than that old truck.
I was so confused!? I mean , I do love my sons more than I can express, but what happened that made him feel that way.
SO I said, " Why do you say that Grant"
HE told me that" as soon as the two trucks collided,(at really no more than a gentle roll) I jumped off of the lawn mower ran over to the door and opened it quicker than snot! (my sons' quote, don't know exactly how quick snot is but....) the first thing you asked me was if I was alright and that made me feel loved dad. OH yeah and dad, next time I will drive the mower.K?"
I tell you what, my 9 yr old made me so proud that I told him not to worry about that stupid dent cuz I have done way worse than that before. And someday when he is older I will tell him all the details of those mistakes.. LOL..
pic of the OOOPS
