The parent-child relationship is so very complicated. Inevitably, its texture seems to change over time, rarely in linear fashion. Most of these relationships are filled with a complex mix of joy, devotion, frustration, commitment, irritation, ecstasy, celebration, and, yes, sporadic fits of anger. Such is life, no? As we age, as children become parents, and often caregivers for their own parents, our understanding of this most fundamental relationship evolves, sometimes in unexpected ways. This we hear from John Minahan.
John Minahan teaches English and Psychology at the Lincoln School in Providence. Minahan is a former professional musician and college instructor who lives in Providence.