Isn't it the role of the parent to teach the children? So that when they reach, say the age of 40, they can churn out the many pearls of wisdom that have gushed from their parents' mouths over this many years.
Perhaps my old fallback position of answering most questions with "It's just another mystery of life" hasn't given that solid footing, but I am proud nevertheless to be the parent of some solid, decent, adventurous, glorious young adults.
My oldest son turns 40 today. And as I think about the many life lessons I want to impart to him, I instead remember the life lessons he has taught me.
There he was at school nudging his assignment deadline. There I was slightly stressed and checking the printer for ink and paper, anticipating some last minute drama, lest he not get it in on time.
"Pressure makes diamonds," he said.
And it has proven so. He has created a world filled with diamonds. He walks a glittering path, sometimes spiky, sometimes slippery, but always shining and always paved with stones that sparkle.
In fact, here comes life lesson number two. When asked why this boy who could do anything chose a career in arts, most specifically music, his response was worthy of another life lesson.
"Every day has led to today and today I'm happy," he said.
And what parent doesn't want their son to be happy? These are words that mean everything. These are words that warm a parental heart.
He follows up: "It depends on how you measure success. You might measure success with a healthy bank account. You might measure it with friends and work and a nice house. I ask myself if I have played music today. If I have, I have had a successful and I've had a happy day," he said.
The legacy of his words remain.
In our family we still call sandwiches "fuddies" and dried apricots "gukkies". We still drive past the house of Cocky and Spaceman when we drive past the Carindale tavern. We live on the fringe of his childhood fantasy.
We remember the beaded dreadlocks. We remember the spirit, the value he places on friendship. We remember his kindness and his verve, driven by intellect, motivation and inspiration.
It's been 40 years and every one has been as precious as diamonds. Happy birthday.
- Linda Muller
