For My Sons

Three sons born to the same family can be as different as night and day. It's fascinating to think that, even with the same parents and a shared environment, there can be contrasting differences. Since there seems to be an inherently negative perception of people who are "different," it is best to use the word, "unique." My three sons may have their unique qualities, but there are also commonalities that can be traced to their shared experiences. All three are intelligent and creative young men who have a sense of compassion. With all of our travels in Taiwan and beyond, they share a love for travel and exploration of new experiences. We raised them to see the entire world as their "back yard." What makes my sons UNIQUE? I will answer that question using the language of possibility and from the future point of view. JOHAN - What can I say about Johan? He was the first child, the one who forced me to reconsider my priorities. After my marriage, when I f...

When my first son was born in 2001, I had no idea how much one person could transform my life. Even though I had nine months to prepare, I didn't feel ready for this BIG change. I was married in August 2000, and I didn't plan to have any children so soon. I wanted to spend more time getting to know my wife, planning our future, and traveling around the USA before raising a family. But life doesn't usually go as planned. I admit I was nervous about the uncertain future for the newly-arrived bundle of responsibility. I nervously clipped the slimy bluish-white umbilical cord with the surgical scissors, separating one life from another, leaving a fragile, vulnerable, and dependent human being in the care of his parents. I wondered if I could truly "hack it" as a dad. Did I learn enough to handle fatherhood? Would I make the right choices? Would I have the space in my heart to make large sacrifices for him? As I held my son in my arms for the first time in the delivery...