Charles Bukowski asked, “Do you remember who you were before they told you who to be?”

My daughter turns 10 this week and is struggling to maintain the ideal she has of herself amidst the growing expectations placed on her in the name of ‘growing up.’

I told her I’m aware of her pains and struggles and I will help her remember who she is now and who she has been up until now.

She seems relieved despite the the fact that I’ve made the RULE, no more drawing in school other than art classes. You must learn what they are trying to teach you. Then we go back to art and drawing.

Because we have trust, she knows I’m telling her the truth and not selling her the goods.

Happy Birthday Zylia! It is an honor to be your friend and father.