So, I went out last night to get gas so I wouldn't have to after work. It was about 10:00PM. While I was there I saw a man and his son leaving the gas station. The boy was about 7 or 8, shirtless and scrawny. The dad was also scrawny, wearing a white tanktop undershirt (aka wifebeater) and carrying a bag I assumed held beer in it. My first thought was "Jeez. That poor kid. What chance does he have?"As I watched them cross the parking lot I saw the man reach out and tousle the boy's hair. Then as they approached the street he gently reached down and took his son's hand, smiled at him and carefully crossed the street. At this point I realized I was being judgmental and even prejudiced. I had no reason to condemn the father of this boy on first sight. I did not know why they were out late. Perhaps the boy had had a nightmare and Dad walked him over to the gas station for ice cream to make him feel better. Whatever my reasons, I was wrong to judge him so quickly and so harshly. It is very likely, as was demonstrated by his small displays of affection, that he is a loving, caring and involved father who is doing everything he can to give his child the best life he can. Just like I am doing. And you are too.So, to all the parents and people I have passed judgment on, whether you were at Wal-Mart, live in a trailer park, or are just struggling to do the best you can, I apologize. I should know better. It has been done to me, and I hated it. I will try to refrain from such stupid behavior in the future.

---