LogFAQs > #970412608

synklare posted...

Fearful of disappointing my dad, yes.

That's not fear, necessarily. That's respecting your dad as a senior/elder and, on some level, how you should view him. You respected and cherished the time you had with him back then and understood it wouldn't be forever. Disappointing him meant that an opportunity to enjoy simple times together was replaced with a lecture or teaching opportunity, which as a child is not what you want (though it is necessary to growing up well adjusted and healthy).

Many adults confuse fear with respect. It sounds like your dad managed to teach you respect, without fear (even though your childhood understanding of it made it seem like fear)