I used to follow the exploits of Dick Hoyt and his son back when they raced. I was so impressed with this guy. I would have loved to meet him. He was inspirational to me. My only son has autism and to have a young son diagnosed with a disability like that or CP is devastating beyond words. What I've noticed in observing people over the past couple decades is that many young men in our society are not equipped to handle that as a father. Many aren't equipped to even be fathers - but that's another discussion. But, many (80% or more) just check out when they have to face this kind of tragedy. Still in our house there are little signs of the struggle we went through trying to save our own son. I haven't cleaned up many of them, but regularly look at them and think back of how tough and dark it was. In Dick's case, his son wasn't going to get any better. I actually CAN imagine that. But, that's where the spirit kicks in. Dick decided to not fold, but fight. I can relate to that.

I've not read a lot of Ayn Rand - Atlas Shrugged being my mainstay. But, I don't think she seemed to address parenthood at all directly. If she did, I'd appreciate a pointer to that. That's ok, though. Because being a parent changes you forever. And, I don't fault non-parents for spouting off a bunch of malarkey about kids/parenting. But, having a disabled child steeled me beyond words. If you're in a fox hole a guy like Dick or me is who you want fighting next to you.

Fortunately...my son's recovery has been fantastic. I'm pretty private about that anymore, because I had to learn things that our society is trying to hide in order to help him. And, frankly, that pisses a lot of people off. But...like I said - if you're in a fox hole...