Put The Chain On Me Too

This one really hits the heart — a quiet reminder for every parent.

“Put the chain on me too” the boy whispered, eyes full of quiet longing.

That morning unfolded like so many others:

“Get up! Wash your face! Comb your hair! Hurry, put your shirt on!”
“No time for breakfast — take your juice, and don’t spill it!”
“What did I just say? You already stained your shirt! I’m tired of this. You never do anything right!”

The boy said nothing.
He couldn’t say “Dad.”
He was afraid.

At school, he struggled to focus.
Always distracted. Always sad.
He kept wondering why other kids smiled… and he didn’t.

Later that evening, in a rare moment of courage, he spoke up:

“Today my teacher asked what our dads do. I didn’t know what to say…”

“I train dogs,” his father answered, barely looking up.

“What do you teach them?” the boy asked softly.

“Obedience. Not to break things. To protect. To guide the blind. To save lives.
To be calm, loyal, brave — and to do it all without expecting anything in return.”

“How do you train them?”

“I use a little chain. I walk beside them, speak calmly, correct them without hurting.
Then I reward them with affection — so they know I’m not angry. But it takes patience… lots of it.”

The boy swallowed. His eyes brimmed with tears.
Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, he said:

“Then put the chain on me too, Dad…
Teach me like you teach them.
Correct me… but don’t shout.
Hug me afterwards.
Be patient with me.

I’ll protect our home.
I’ll learn to care for others.

And one day… if you ever lose your sight,
I’ll be your eyes.

Just… put the chain on me.”

The father broke down.
And in that moment, in that embrace, a new chain was formed —
One not of metal, but of love, patience, and understanding.

A chain that, if nurtured, never breaks.

Let’s not forget:
Our children don’t need perfection — they need presence.
Love isn’t shouted. It’s shown.