Meeting My Biological Father, Larry Woodson, “The Conversations.” Part 3 of 8

My Biological Father, Larry Woodson

I met Raymond and Joseph for breakfast. I had always admired these men for their dedication to being the best husbands and fathers to their spouses and children. They epitomized what we teach to the youth in our non-profit Osiris Organization. As the three of us sat down at the table it didn’t take us long to get straight to the topic at hand.

“Bill, I cannot thank you enough for writing your book and telling your story,” Raymond said. “It felt like it was my life you were talking about, especially the part about meeting your biological dad for the first time. Man, the courage it must have taken to do something like this. Do you have any idea how many of men have similar experiences?”

I could tell Raymond was sincere. I didn’t say a word; I just listened.  His voice grew passionate as he continued. “The reason this is so important to me is that I hadn’t met my biological dad until last year. All my life I wondered what he looked like; did I look like him. It’s been a void in my life, and now that I’m in my mid 60s, I can start the healing process.”

As Joseph and I listened to Raymond’s experiences, I thought, “Oh, how I wish this could be the norm among my brethren. Normally, as men are guarded; at least until we have spent lots of time together. I have always envied women because they can share their deepest thoughts with one another within minutes of meeting.”

“Thanks, Raymond. I never thought that sharing this portion of my life would be of any benefit to anyone.”  They looked startled. “I dealt with so many emotional struggles, some of my thoughts were, ‘who cares about my life? How is this going to benefit anyone outside of myself? What kind of reactions will I get from friends and especially family?’ I found myself judging my stories, anticipating the reactions of others.” They listened intently as I spoke. “This was the most challenging thing I have ever done.”

Raymond and Joseph looked out across the room. We were just getting started.  Next Tuesday, More Conversations!

Bill Roddy

Co-Founder of an non-profit organization with broad experience in all aspects of reduction of recidivism among at-risk youth through detailed program development. Bill is also a speaker, entrepreneur and author of Manhood From The Hood, his memoir, which recalls the no-nonsense, masculine ideals Bill learned from his grandfather.

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