I have shamed my family. I have shamed myself.
It’s time to stop the lying. It’s time to be honest with those I love.
I stole my daughter’s allowance money. It was $18 she kept in her purse.
First, let me explain.
It was late at night. I was alone. A friend called and said he needed an extra player for his team’s hockey game tonight. I admit, I gave into temptation. I put my needs before the needs of my family. Men’s league hockey with other middle-aged round-around-middle dudes is, I admit, tawdry. The sweat, the communal showers. The physical contact. God, help me.
I rifled through my pockets for the $20 I needed to, um, complete the transaction. I found nothing. I panicked. I was already in to deep. Then I thought about my daughter’s cash.
She wouldn’t even know it was gone for a few days. She’s 8 years old. Her WebKinz cash is more important to her than a couple ten spots.
So I took it and I handed it over. And I played my game. Yes, it was arrogant. Yes, it was self-righteous. And it made my legs really sore.
I’m not asking for forgiveness. I’m asking for understanding. Let me remain a good father. Let my family remember the good times.
And, hey, at least I wore protection.