Just say it
After World War II and into the fifties and sixties, men and women were recovering and reasserting themselves in society.
The men were hardened, and women generally were busy making lots of babies and transitioning from a day at the hot copper in the laundry ( if they had one) to a Hoover top loading washing machine.
The men had experienced rigid controls in the military. Afterwards, there was no time for compassion.
They were too busy toiling, sometimes working six days a week from dawn to provide for their families. To forget ,they dashed into the pub before six o'clock closing.
They didn't know the word ‘love"’ least of all, be able to say it straight to the faces of their children. They just couldn't.
It wasn't until I was well into my forties that my own father wrote a letter to me telling me how he was proud of my achievements. He died in his 79th year. My brothers and I were in the hospital room when he took his last breath.
Just before that, I kissed him on the forehead and whispered it was okay to go.
It is important for men to tell their children that they love them.
There is more to it than just rubbing your unshaven face against their little cheeks.
Saying the "word", could have a profound effect and last them their whole lives.
Go on, just say it. And a happy Christmas to you all. Ian Honey, Warragul
A big bouquet to the kind woman who helped me with unloading my trolley at Bunnings, Warragul on Monday morning December 4. I did appreciate her kindness and help.
Bouquets to all the year 12 students who have completed their VCE and studies and are awaiting their ATAR to pursue their future. All of your hard work has paid off.
A big bouquet to the person who found my keycard and handed it in to the CBA in Warragul. The bank couldn't tell me who you were, but it was really appreciated. Best wishes to you.
Thank you to the Salvos for their huge team effort making gingerbread houses last week. My two-year-old grandson celebrated his birthday making one fantastic house.
Thank you to the Drouin West Primary School students who gave of their time and who sang so beautifully a variety of songs for us at Lyrebird Village Drouin on December 6. Their last song wished us a Merry Xmas and we wish them well also. Your singing was much appreciated.
A big bouquet to the man who was picking up rubbish on the side of the Warragul-Korumburra Rd near East West Rd on Sunday afternoon. It was a shame there was so much rubbish for you to collect.
A huge bouquet to all the off duty medical personel and Blackwood truck driver who came to my aide the Friday before when my motorcycle collided with a car. A huge thanks also to the little girl who said a prayer for me. I am doing okay.