The Get Out Date: One Father's Guide to Raising a Son

It has been said that children do not come to us with an instruction manual. While this may be true, I do believe that they come with instructions hardwired into their DNA. As parents, it is our responsibility to use the gift of parenting to monitor and perceive these instructions, and put our children in the right environments to mature them. And if we pay close attention, there will be subtle advice shared along the way. "I've long since retired and my son's moved away. 
I called him up just the other day. 
I said, I'd like to see you if you don't mind. 
He said, I'd love to, dad, if I could find the time. 
You see, my new job's a hassle, and the kids have the flu. 
But it's sure nice talking to you, dad
. It's been sure nice talking to you. 
And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me
. He'd grown up just like me. 
My boy was just like me" Sandy Chapin / Harry F. Chapin I had heard this song so many times, but it was not until I had a son that it held meaning for me. In raising my son, not only did I have to make sure that he became his own man, but I also realized that I needed to model the type of man and ultimately the type of father, I wanted him to become. This song served as a warning. "The Get Out Date" therefore was not as much about putting my son out, as it was preparing him to be successful once he left.