My dad thinks he's funny

Story time, Josiah. It's 15 April 2026. I fly to Bangkok tomorrow on one of those damned biz trips. You’re ecstatic because I just read your favourite book called “My dad thinks he's funny”. Every time I read it, you laugh hysterically at all the jokes, even though you don't fully understand them.

We're done, you're bouncing on the bed and I ask for a hug. “Be good, ok? I'm going to miss you while I'm gone. Listen to mummy and help take care of Aurelia. I'll be thinking of you every day.”

You hug me but you don't let go and I start to feel your silent sobs on my shoulder. I rub your back and squeeze you. I tell you it's just 5 days and I'll be back before you know it. It doesn't help. You cry silently for a while and I ended up distracting you by telling Aurelia her bedtime story. I didn't want our little moment to end, but I didn't want you to be sad for too long.

When I die, I won't be surprised if this scene flashed before my eyes. You're gonna be a teenager before I know it, and these precious moments will be no more. But know that I am and will always be so very proud and happy to be your daddy.