Parenting
What If I Fall…Without My Father to Support Me?
by Jamie Morgan
Updated: Feb. 19, 2021
Originally Published: November 28, 2005
“I’m scared, Dad.”
“There’s nothing to worry about, sweetheart.”
“What if I stumble?”
“I’m here for you. I won’t let you falter.”
As a determined child, I was resolute in my pursuits. When I set my sights on riding my bike without training wheels, I felt an exhilarating sense of freedom beckoning me. I asked my father for guidance. Initially, he suggested I practice more with the training wheels, but my imploring hazel eyes convinced him otherwise. Within hours, I was gliding down the street alone, wind tousling my golden hair as I shouted with glee, “Dad, look! I’m doing it!”
Fast forward a few years…
“I’m scared, Dad.”
“There’s nothing to fear, sweetheart.”
“What if I fall?”
“I’m here for you. I won’t let you falter.”
Every Sunday after church, my father and I made it a tradition to enjoy ice cream before hitting the skating rink. He always chose French vanilla on a cake cone, while I savored chocolate on a sugar cone. We would chat, indulging in the sweet aroma of our favorite ice cream shop. At the rink, I admired my father’s skill as he effortlessly skated backward, spun, and glided across the floor. Wanting to join in on couples skating, I hesitated and confessed my fears. He patiently guided me until I felt confident enough to showcase my newfound skills the following Friday night when Kyle would ask me to skate.
Years later…
“I’m scared, Dad.”
“There’s nothing to worry about, sweetheart.”
“What if I stumble?”
“I’m here for you. I won’t let you falter.”
On my wedding day, dressed in an elegant ivory gown, I stood nervously behind a spiral staircase, dreading the aisle walk. My father’s comforting presence calmed my nerves as he held my trembling hand. “Walk slowly,” he advised, “Let them appreciate your beauty.” With one arm linked through his and my other hand gripping his arm, we walked with heads held high to the altar. He gently reminded me to take my time, whispering, “Slow down, sweetheart.”
Throughout my life, he has been my rock—supporting me through the loss of friends, attending their memorials by my side, and comforting me during my first heartbreak. He always held my hand, even when I was old enough to cross the street independently. His hands, though not large, were strong, warm, and always felt like home.
Years later…
“I’m scared, Dad.”
“There’s nothing to fear…ahem…there’s nothing to worry about, sweetheart.” I could hear the effort in his voice to be strong.
The harsh truth is that he can’t reassure me this time. He can’t assuage my fears or take them away. He is battling cancer, and now, the responsibility falls on me to be the strong one. But how can I? The thought of reaching for his hand and finding it absent is terrifying.
I’m scared, Dad. What if I stumble? What if I fall? What if I fall?
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In summary, the journey through life is filled with moments of fear and uncertainty. The support of loved ones can help us navigate these challenges, whether it’s learning to ride a bike, skate, or face life’s more daunting obstacles like illness.
Keyphrase: Support Through Fear
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