TO: Everyone EXCEPT Will Solace

[divasmio]

I've had the privilege of being pulled into this world alongside one of my children, and I'm determined to be the best father I can be to him now that I finally have the opportunity.

I'm starting to realize that I don't know what that looks like. Back home, I'd been able to periodically circumvent the... barriers keeping us apart through gifts and periodic visits, but I'm at a loss when it comes to being a father day-to-day.

Can anyone offer any general advice?

Comments

[divinityfrompain]

I didn't have good parents so I can't speak from experience, but I can say what I would've liked from them.

Being around, being available and supportive and interested in him, I'm sure that's all making a difference. You haven't been around but now you have the chance to get to know him on a personal level, and you should take advantage of that. Find out what is important to him and encourage his passions. Have Dad-Son days where you guys get lunch and share about your life.

Another thing you can do is just talk to him, Apollo. Find out what Will needs by asking him directly.

private;

[divasmio]

[ Apollo recalls the history that Julia had relayed to him; Her perspective is unique in a way few others are, and he appreciates it immensely. ]

I do try, but you know how Will is. He's so worried about being a burden to others, he doesn't like to ask for help. Or even take it when it's offered.

I suppose what I'm looking for is a balance between giving him the freedom to grow at his own pace, and making him step away from his responsibilities and lighten his load.

Private forever

[divinityfrompain]

In my experience, with people like that, you sometimes can reframe the way they're thinking in order to make it easier.

You: let me help
Them: no, I don't need help, I can do it!
You: I know you can do it, but it would make me happy and feel fulfilled if you'd let me do it with you.

For a community helper like Will, sometimes framing it as a joint effort or something you're not doing for him but for the same reasons he's doing it, helps make it less personal.

In general I think he wants you to be there, Apollo. To love him and be proud of him and want to be around him. Isn't that something you'd like from Zeus?