Promise Me, Dad: A Year of Hope, Hardship, and Purpose

by Joe Biden

One thing I have grown especially attuned to over the years is just how many people are quietly and uncomplainingly suffering psychic and emotional pain at any given time.

Humans were capable of incredible cruelty, our father wanted me, my sister, and my brothers to understand. And just as dangerous, he made us see, human beings were also capable of looking the other way and remaining silent when awful things were happening all around them.

They thought Beau would win his race for governor in 2016; and then, whether or not I ever made it to the White House, Beau would have his chance to run for president. “But now,” Hunter said, and I knew he was talking for both of them, “it has to be you, Dad.”

I have always followed my father’s advice: Never tell a man what his interests are. Be straight and open with him about your own interests. And try to put yourself in his shoes. Try to understand his hopes and his limitations, and never insist that he do something you know he cannot. It’s really just about making the effort to make a personal connection.