Growing Up

Growing Up

“So, here are the instructions, I wrote some notes on them because I felt they were a little vague in places. I’ve laid out the parts in the order in which you will need them, and brought up all the tools you will need.
They say that all you need is those little plastic and metal tools they put in the box but, I thought it might go a lot easier if you use real tools. Of course, it’s up to you, it’s your shelves. I know you don’t like me helping you with stuff.”

“Thanks Dad...”

“I know this is your first time putting something together like this. I’ll leave you alone, but if you need any help be sure to call me. I’ll just be in the den.”

“Ah, Dad?”

“What Andy? Did I forget something?”

“No Dad, you remembered everything, but I have a suggestion.”

“Oh? What?”

“Why don’t you put it together?”

“But you never want a helper...”

“I’ll be the helper. I was a little overwhelmed by the instructions, truth be told. You can teach me all that stuff you’ve learned over the years, so the next time I try to build a piece of furniture I’ll know how to do it right.”

Dad smiled.

Later, when Dad went to pick up take out food, Mom made a comment on Andy’s decision. “I find it hard to believe you took shop for two years and don’t know how to put together a shelf from ‘You Build’ by yourself...”

“Huh,” Andy said, smiling, “I guess I finally grew up.”