Great post, very thoughtful. We had a similar revelation due to family issues a few years back that made my pack realize and admit to one another just how much we mean to each other. Turned those frowns upside down real quick and really improved the quality of our relationships and ability to communicate with one another rather than simply growling or purring. The old man can still sit in a boat for a fair time when its warm but decades of bone grinding work and responsibility (being a MAN) are starting to cut into his water fouling time. Sad to watch but sure does make you appreciative of the sacrifices that now show through all to clear in his creaky knees and sore back. I still like to get after him about his gray hair, he he.