A father expresses concern that his son “has no interest in sports,” and he wonders if there is reason for worry.
As dads, we understand the concern because it just seems “natural” for guys to be attracted to the competitive, rough-and-tumble wide world of sports. Two questions come to mind: As dads, what might we be worried about? Secondly, what is meant by the word “natural”?
Tom Tozer and Bill Black pose for a portrait Monday, March 28, 2016 at the Chattanooga Times Free Press.A manly pursuit
Our guess is that dads don’t get too worked up if little Suzy finds it more natural to climb a tree or put on a catcher’s mask than play with dolls. Why is that? We think it’s because dads who love sports hope their passion for touchdowns and fly balls and dunks will carry forth in their young sons. After all, males and sports are teammates, right? If my daughter exhibits interest in a more masculine activity, no worry she’ll eventually grow out of it. Or who knows – she just may show up the boys!
The world is composed of exceptions, ironies and wonderful surprises. Tom’s uncle, who was not a sports enthusiast, was an accomplished organist. He also crocheted – not a typical activity for a man. He also worked in a funeral home preparing bodies for viewing and burial. He was a creative man of diverse interests. Were they masculine or feminine interests? Does it matter?