Naleighna Kai's Literary Cafe Magazine Father's Day Tributes | Page 71

to do things I never had before , and I saw my baby growing into a man . He modeled his father in many ways and was courteous , gallant , and respectful while at the same time , maintaining a masculine edginess . I also noted the change in how he treated me . He was more decisional , didn ’ t ask me to do things as much , and I grew to be appreciative .
Once that same son was employed and dating , I heard from young ladies and employers mentioning how highly they thought of him . While I knew I was “ in him ,” much of who he became was based on how he watched his father treat me and insisted our sons did likewise .
I recall a conversation that still makes me smile .
Mister dragged our boys into the room one day where I was resting and demanded ; “ Do you see that woman right there ? That ’ s my wife .”
The boys looked confused , but Mr . expounded , by saying , “ She ’ s my wife , first . She was my wife before both of you were born , and you will never disrespect her . Ever . If you do , you will answer to me . My wife . Do you understand ?”
My eldest rolled his eyes , and his dad moved in on him and repeated , “ Yes , boy , my wife and you won ’ t disrespect her , not by talking back , bringing foolishness to her or not doing your best . You understand ?”
That had them both shook because I was the yeller in the parental unit . They said , “ Yes sir .”
Later , I asked , “ What was that about ?” He didn ’ t tell me . He said , “ It was handled .” I was tempted to ask the boys but didn ’ t . I was glad I hadn ’ t because retrospectively , I realized that would have somehow undermined my husband ’ s authority .
In this season of life , I often hear women say they aren ’ t submitting to any man and unless I ’ m asked specifically I say nothing . First , because I ’ m not interested in arguing the issue . However , when I ’ m asked , I make it clear submitting doesn ’ t mean being treated badly , cheated on , or not being honored or respected as worthy . I also say “ When you get a man who is worthy of being the head of his household , who loves you only after God and will fight anyone who crosses you , submission is easy in the home , life , and bedroom .” Yes , I went there .
In my home , I felt safe and cared for even in the times when I ’ ve earned considerably more money and had a bigger career title , my man was still head of our household . Who he was , how he cared for me and us and carried himself