As Father’s Day approaches, I think of my lovely daughter who’s growing into a lovely young woman. Whenever possible, I emphasize to her is the importance of clear communication or that what she says has some “meat” to it, per se. I want her to express herself clearly so no one would have to ask —like the iconic tagline from classic Wendy’s commercial, “Where’s the beef?”
I’ve been vegan for several years now, and one of my favorites foods are sandwich patties from Quorn, which my daughter, Moriah, has also come to love.
I recall one afternoon a few years ago while preparing lunch, I asked, “Moriah, I am making sandwiches. Would you like a sandwich?” “Uh-huh!”, she replied. “Moriah, would you like a sandwich?”, I repeated. She answered with a more empathic, “Uh-huh!”
When I came from the kitchen, Moriah noticed there was only one sandwich.
“Is that my sandwich, Daddy?”
“No, Moriah. This is for me.”
“But, Daddy, I said I wanted a sandwich.”
“Really? When, Moriah?”
My daughter’s confusion as to why she has yet to eat was soon followed by a gasp of revelation. “Ohhhhh! Daddy, yes, I would like a sandwich. Can you please make one for me?” Smiling because of her realization, I answered, “Sure thing. You’re an intelligent young lady, Moriah. In the future, when Daddy asks you a question, I’d like you to respond with a complete sentence.”
Every once in a while, she regresses, even nodding or shaking her head as a reply, which is always met with no action from me.
Yet, the seed has been planted.
