It's a good thing, being a dad and a granddad

Pundits and politicians like to say that we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us.Amen to that. That's the point of culture, right? You move civilization forward using what's been learned, examining the current situation in the larger context of the past, and fix what's wrong, or could be improved.

Tis is especially true for the responsibility of parenting.A good parent wants to raise children who add to the texture of daily life, in ways personal and social.

And, to my son, Matthew, as I think about this coming Father's Day, I am heartened and proud to think as your dad that I can claim some share of the credit for your being a truly remarkable dad to Noah, your 1-year-old son.

Even at an early age, some kids can have agendas, personal issues that get in the way of their and others' happiness.But not Noah. Quite simply, he's happy.

nd as I watched my grandson grow this year, I found him extraordinary.His perception is keen and his curiosity limitless. It's fascinating to watch him solve a problem requiring motor skills that he's still developing, using reasoning culled from a very limited experience base.

I'm proud and impressed that my son takes care of Noah a couple days each week.I'm proud that he changed careers recently, giving up a good salary as a mortgage banker, to return to school to become a nurse.

He has his mother's natural compassion for others, so I think it's a great career choice.The proof is in the pudding, and I see this in Noah as my wife and I baby-sit for him once each week, thanks to Jan's prescience.

It's clear to me that I raised a fine young man who in turn is doing the same with his own son.Stand on my shoulders, Matthew. Happy Father's Day. I love you.