Experiences with my sons are the most precious things in my life today. This past weekend, we had an incredible opportunity to spend several days with a group of elite military operators for a father-son event, alongside other dads, their sons, and a few friends. We flew into Jacksonville, rented a car, drove to Savannah, and checked into the JW Marriott Riverside Power Plant—a converted power plant turned into a stunning hotel with a museum-like lobby and multiple buildings and restaurants.
That first evening, it was just the three of us for dinner. We talked about girlfriends, breakups, the upcoming semester in Italy, the rest of senior year, and what we thought we might be in for over the next two days. These conversations, full of anticipation and connection, are the moments I truly cherish.
Starting at 8 AM Friday, we dove headfirst into an experience that pushed us far beyond our comfort zones. The weekend was transformative, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of it.
At 52, watching my sons experience these moments fills me with joy. They’re getting such a head start on opportunities, and the fact that we can share these experiences together means the world to me. We engaged in tactical pistol and rifle training, fired from a Little Bird helicopter flying a few hundred feet above the ground, shot from turrets in military Humvees, and learned to clear rooms. We even played SWAT games. The weather was perfect, and to top it off, we ate at the same property where Ben Affleck and J.Lo got married.
To be honest, I was fearful of many of these activities. While I’ve had some training, I’m far from proficient. Handling firearms, sitting on the side of a helicopter with only a seatbelt across my lap—it’s nerve-wracking. And my fear wasn’t for me; it was for my sons. Despite the thrill and the professionals ensuring safety at every step, there’s always an inherent risk.
A quote from my friend Gary Lipovetsky came to mind: “Over time, I’ve learned that moments like this—when fear tells me to stop, to stay safe—are the moments that define my life. Pushing past fear and doubt has been what’s freed me and enriched my life the most.”
This quote resonates deeply. In my 50s, becoming the best version of myself isn’t just for me—it’s for my boys. I want to be an example of the kind of man I hope they’ll grow into: someone who takes risks, embraces uncertainty, and never stops growing.
Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, the highlight of the weekend was bonding with men who have served our country in special forces. These are individuals who live with courage, pride, and empathy—family men with a calling to serve. We listened to their stories, learned from them, and gained a profound appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication.
This experience was unlike anything I encountered growing up. Only now, in my 40s and 50s, am I surrounded by individuals like this and exploring such opportunities. It’s energizing, enlightening, and, honestly, incredibly fun. Scary? Sure. But that fear is part of what makes it so exciting.
I’m not the toughest guy, but being around men like this reminds me that I can hold my own for a weekend. My fitness, health, and training allow me to keep up, and I take pride in showing my sons that. I love that they’re exposed to this environment so early and can see the potential of what life can hold as they grow.
One of the most meaningful moments came when my sons reflected on the value of experiences over material things. They talked about how to use success to create memories, relationships, and friendships—lessons they saw firsthand this weekend. They witnessed generosity in action: the sharing of time, energy, and resources to create meaningful experiences.
These moments are made possible by friendships. My friend Kirk, whom I’ve known for over 30 years since our time at the University of Michigan, was the mastermind behind this weekend. His generosity and vision allowed us to take part in something extraordinary. Even better, he’s one of the founding members of Midlife Male and he lives our ethos to the fullest.
Ultimately, these are the things that matter: having friends who push you toward growth, a family that supports you, and the chance to create unforgettable memories with the people you love. For that, I am profoundly grateful.
