Rocky Balboa and the Prodigal Son

Rocky Theme (for effect)

Everyone is wise is hindsight ... everyone can understand that an irresponsible calculating, violent, addicted, molesting, mongrel father is a painful experience... maybe one you'll never get over in this lifetime but, even a well meaning, loving, ever watchful father can still be, from a child's perspective, a pain in the ass.

Not until we are parents ourselves do we realise that we are blind to the privilege afforded by our parents. Rocky Balboa is not a movie I would recommend rushing out to see at the cinema, however there is a scene in which Rocky addresses his son which is unmissable.

Rocky Balboa "Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It is a very mean and nasty place and it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't how hard you hit; it's about how hard you can get hit, and keep moving forward. How much you can take, and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done. Now, if you know what you're worth, then go out and get what you're worth. But you gotta be willing to take the hit, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you are because of him, or her, or anybody. Cowards do that and that ain't you. You're better than that!" Watch the clip here:

My father, from my perspective, drives me mad, frustrates me, imposes and trivialises many of my important issues. From his, my father's point of view ... (something he learned from his father ... the hard way) Parents are always due respect. "What folly it is to cross the line and to assert ones untried 'superior knowledge', because it ain't over. You don't want to burn your bridges before you know whether or not you've got the real thing".

Cutting trivia short is a loving attempt to salvage some of the wisdom passed through the experience and shame that came from crossing the line with his own father. Nevertheless somehow he still finds a way to inspire, encourage, lift, direct and comfort me just as often.

My mother absorbs more than I can tolerate and covers her children constantly,without thought to herself or consequence like only a mother can. She also bakes the best scones in Australia.

It isn't easy living under the life and legacy of my parents. It isn't any easier for them to live amongst my achievements and failures. To recognise the privilege afforded by my parents ... to teach, to recognise potential, to mentor and support throughout growth ... this prodigal, although not a son, loves much and appreciates more the opportunities to live and to grow. Thank you.

Luke 15:11-31