Episode 54: So Close and Yet So Far

I’m working at my first job as an editor at a natural gas association in Rosslyn in Arlington when I realize Dad’s office at the Agency for International Development is just three blocks away.

I call him at home on a Tuesday evening. I have the pictures from Tyler’s wedding. After the first awkward exchange, I make my pitch.

“Hey Dad, I have a bunch of pictures from Tyler’s wedding. I thought you might like some.”

Tom Sarris's Orleans House in Rosslyn, VA.

“Well, how would I know if I haven’t seen them?” he asks in a crusty tone of voice.

Take a deep breath. Count to five.

“Uh, since we’re only a couple of blocks apart in Rosslyn, I thought we could have lunch so you can take a look and pick some.”

There’s a pause. This is a foreign concept.

I step into the void. “Maybe we can meet at the Orleans House, Friday at noon.”

“Umm, yeah, sure.” He sounds distracted.

“Okay then, I’ll see you there.”

By Friday morning, I’m royally pissed off. Dad’s lack of interest couldn’t be more obvious. So I decide to call his office and cancel. It takes more than half an hour working through agency operators, but I finally find his office number.

The phone rings but Dad doesn’t answer. A colleague does. When I ask to speak to my father, the man says, “Oh, Dan and his wife left town yesterday for a four-day getaway weekend. He’ll be back Monday. Can I take a message?”

No. No message.

Over the years, I’ve been angry at my father and hurt by his neglect.

I have never been more furious than I am now.