Читать книгу Hard Cuddles - James Harding - Страница 11

OAKLEIGH MACCAS BRICK DROP

‘We cant be brave without fear.’

— Muhammad Ali

As a young fella, my Dad was always my hero. We have a very deep connection and the trust and understanding we have goes back many lifetimes. He is a good, strong man who prides himself on being honest and direct. I can rely on Dad and I have always felt safe with him.

One night we headed off to Maccas in Oakleigh. This was a huge deal because Maccas wasn’t everywhere at this stage and families used to cook every night. So going out for dinner was big deal and, correct me if I’m wrong, but McDonald’s used to taste good.

I shouldn’t really remember this story at all, but my memory for some things is astonishing. As we got to Maccas, I went into the children’s playground and Mum and Dad went to order. I remember playing away and then in came this slightly older kid. My senses went off and I started watching him.

This kid looked over to me and said ‘You see that big rock over there?’ and I said, ‘Yes’. He told me he was going to smash it over my head. I won’t ever forget the feeling of sheer terror as this kid walked over to the rock to pick it up. It was absolutely terrifying. I couldn’t move, I couldn’t scream, I couldn’t do anything. I just stood there and waited for my fate at the hands of a psychotic juvenile at Oakleigh McDonald’s.

As the kid made his way over to me, the playground door opened and a deep voice said, ‘Where do you think you are going with that?’ It was Dad. I immediately felt safe and knew everything was going to be okay. The kid dropped the rock and Dad came and gave me a cuddle. I remember being pretty shaken up. Dad has always been a super emotional and affectionate person, so when he hugs you, well, you stay hugged. As a child it was really wonderful to have a Dad around that cared, you just knew he was always going to be in your corner. His timing and his ability to make us all feel safe, carries him into the top echelon of fathers.

Can you imagine what could have happened if he was looking at Facebook or Instagram instead of watching me? I may not be writing this book.