In the first few years after his wife gave birth to a son, the middle-aged author closely observed the effects on his existence and his craft. He is pleased to report that fatherhood is taxing but survivable, and finds that it exerts a modest but discernible effect on his perspective as a college counselor. He mentions that he compared notes with several other therapists and all agreed parenting influenced their work, though there was no consensus on how. He shares that on those days when a student tries his patience or too many appointments crowd his schedule, he reminds himself these are people's children he is treating. Being a father has brought to life the full significance of that statement.