When I was a kid I would look at my father and mother. I would see a man who looked "tough". When actually he likely felt confused and alone. My mother had a softness to her but an every present hardness. She seemed very strict but had a kind side.
I now know that they both were ill-prepared to take care of such a large family emotionally. What they needed was Jehovah's word and guidance. This would have aided them in coming together as one flesh and being strong like a three-ply rope, instead of the weak 2 ply rope they were.
This was the example I was given. But, I was given more! I studied Jehovah's word in the kingdom hall and at home. The problem was I wasn't listening. I wasn't praying. I was not developing a relationship with our heavenly father.
When I had my own little ones I ended up making the same mistake. But, I started making mistakes before they were born. With my wife, I too did the same just going through the motions and doing things my way.
I remember so many conversations I would start with "This is what you should do in so and so situation when dealing with me". Failed every time, and Yogita confused would say "But I did as you told me to".
Huh? Yeah, she did, why didn't things work out? Because I was not following the words of wisdom found in the bible. If I followed the words in proverbs I would right started our family worship. If I prayed daily about my problems, and fears, and asked for help about my weaknesses from Jehovah putting my full trust in him I would have run back to him. BUT I DID NOT. I choose to come up with other stupid ideas.
When it came to our sons a mean dogmatic approach took over. I would not smile at them. There are different kinds of smiles. Some stay at the eyes, and other smiles can light up one's face. Sometimes just tone can show that one is smiling even though the muscles of the face do not show it. This approach first started with my wife. A gentle flower being hurt by a man not loving her as he should. Instead, he was selfish looking after his own needs, and if they conflicted with his wife's needs he would get angry and blame her.
No more. I am going to work on my tone. I will not use my background as an excuse. I will not say "Well my dad blah blah". Or "My mom did so and so". I stand before Jehovah. He shows us so many examples of love. When we studied Isaiah for our family worship you can hear Jehovah's tone. It is kind imploring, loving, warning sternly, and this is what I need to follow. There are so many others in the bible Jesus's sermons come to my mind. He sounded kind loving, and approachable.
So I am sorry to do this to you my Yogita. I was and am foolish, and with Jehovah's aid, I will do my best to not be MEAN, but to be kind, gentle, and loving.
your man with a hole. (you and your nicknames LOL)
/tata