I Accept This Label

Some moments are defining in the way you grow or persevere and other moments are defining because of the label applied.  Those labels that define you may include parent, teacher, student, drop out, brother and so on.  Last week I got a new label and I’m super proud of it: father-in-law.  My son John was married to a wonderful young woman from an outstanding family.

John and Kara Wedding Day

I admit to mixed emotions about this label because it carries other implied baggage like: old timer, grandpa-to-be, aged.  But I’m not old and I’m young at heart.  My son was married less than a month after he turned 22, so I hereby cast away those labels.

But can I?  It wasn’t long ago my son’s pals and classmates were little kids.  Now when they say “Mr. Connell” to me they are young adults speaking with respect to their elder.  Excuse me?

John and Kara Engagement

Ah, heck.  I embrace this label and all the great stuff that comes with it.  Here’s to John and Kara!  May their life be full of blessings and children.  Hmm… oh, oh.