Children

For years after school Henry had always stopped in to see his father at work. He splashed in the puddles and ran four streets up the hill where his father's workshop stood alone amongst the olive trees and cherry bushes. Careful not to fall he skipped over the squeaking stairs and stairs and rushed into the workshop. "Stop, wipe your feet" his father would say with a wide smile. Henry returned an irritated pout and jumped on the tree stump which was his own seat in the tiny workshop. A smile they exchanged and Henry fell into his own thoughts. He dreamt of being a teacher. How he would enjoy teaching the second graders. It was his soul ambition from when he stepped into the calm peaceful Amberfeild School. "What are you thinking about son?" His father asked that day. "Oh-!" Jumping out of his trans "jus-just about the workshop. Becoming just like you ,you know?" "Really" his father said as if amazed. "The second sign that you shall become a great carpenter." Oh no ......not again, Henry thought. "Remember when we were making your rocking horse. You didn't mind the pain from the blister because the horse was your own creation. That was the first sign my boy"....................

That was long ago. Nine years had passed. Still the father continued to carve his wood and fix his nails to make his quiet living. The hilltop was even quieter these days without his little boy visiting him. Only the sound of his hammer and the chirping of the birds who watched him were heard. The father sat, frown on his face, thinking hard while he hammered some nails. Twice he missed.

In the morning the father had received a letter from his son. It read- "Dear father, It's Henry. How are you? I am shameful that I am asking you now after so many years. I was scared to show my face to you. I really want to see you and know that you will understand.

Do not think that I betrayed you. You are the best father ever. After I left, I became a teacher and not a carpenter like you had expected. I really did want to make you proud, but.....Even though I did not learn your skills of carpentry, I learnt much more from you.

I am patient when I teach my students, Just as you were patient while you sawed your wood. I like all my students whether they are smart or not. You thought me this. And I take all the depression and happiness of the job just like you told me to- Bear the blisters.

I hope you will forgive me."

The words ‘yours lovingly' were blurred by the tears of the father. Here itself we can see the love of the father and son for each other

The Father again picked up his hammer and this time continued his work with more concentration. "I am proud of you son" He said a tear falling on the blue rocking horse.