The Problem With No Problems

"Show me a person who says he has no problems and I'll show you a person with a real problem." ~ Paddy O'Mulligan (aka, my dad)

The quote above comes from my dad's manuscript, an unpublished work entitled, "Halfway Manor of Bisbee."  My sister discovered it while doing some Spring cleaning and asked me if I'd like to read it.  The novel got misplaced and resurfaced recently.

There's a part of me that's eager to read dad's book and another part that would rather keep it on hold.  My rational side would argue I'm too busy to make it a priority, however, if I really want to do something, I make the time.  This book is my dad's last lesson.  The truth is, when I finish this book, it's over.  No more "dadisms," life-long maxims to be shared with us.  It's the final chapter of our time together this side of Heaven.  By putting off reading his book, I have something to look forward to.

Perhaps I'm a little bit afraid of seeing my own problems in this book.  I was always the one in the family that pretended everything was okay and we didn't have any problems.  Dad had a way of seeing through those lies.  You can never solve a problem if you don't first admit there's a problem.

Dad's wisdom is not meant to be hidden away in a drawer.  I need to read it, share it with my writers critique group, and maybe even publish it.  All of you reading today's story are now officially my accountability partners.  I promise you I will read this book and do something with it.  It will be my last gift to him.