Opinions matter or do they?

The last few days have felt inexplicably hard, I have been randomly emotional. In one moment plumbing the depths of utter despair, the next utterly content and happy, only to collapse in an exhausted and listless heap.

Well, perhaps the last comment is a little over dramatized, but that is honestly how I have felt. I am worried about the future, especially considering the possibility of an ever-extending lock-down, my son returning to work and the risk that carries for him and just everything piling up and feeling ominous.

In the past I have felt like I have been coping relatively well with the cabin fever, which I think many of us are experiencing, but just lately I have really struggled. I have been moody and argumentative, and I know that I have often been the cause of many of the altercations which have happened recently.

If I analyzed it, I feel that I am not heard or seen, and my opinion is either unnecessary or irrelevant, and it really bothered me. However, when I really thought about it, this one thought surfaced; surely my opinion is simply that, mine.

Just because I have one, does not mean I need to voice it, or have it heard or placed on a pedestal of the all-knowing opinion, because I do not know everything. In fact, when I think about it, I know extraordinarily little, and I have so much to learn from everyone.

I saw a Simon Sinek video this morning in which he discussed the dynamics of a mentoring relationship, as Mentor-Mentor, not as I have always believed Mentor-Mentee, and I think this same dynamic stands true for parenting.

As much as I believe that I have so much to teach my children, I have so much to learn from them. Not just about how to navigate social media and which YouTube channel is the best, but also compassion, innovation, creativity, joy and the absolute wonder of looking at the world, Covid-19 and global warning included, that holds so much promise and delight.

I can only say, Aidan and Amy, I am sorry for being a horse’s ass recently and thank you for giving me the privilege to learn from you. I am truly blessed to be your father!