I'm a guy just over 30, and I'm unable to figure some men out. A friend recently told me he'd called his parents to wish them a happy anniversary.

My friend said his father's response was, "Yeah, right."

Why are some men incapable of showing love?

Men born before 1950 can't do it. I think three out of five men born on or before 1950 have a quandary when it comes to love. My Dad, born in 1944, was no different.

A few years ago, Dad and I sent each other Christmas cards. Mine read, "Miss you Dad, I love you."

Dad's card was a little more abrasive. The card he sent was a friendship card and had a telephone calling card attached. I thought this was Dad's was of telling me to give him a call.

After Christmas had come and gone, I was on the phone talking to my mother.

We spoke about Dad, and I told Mom about Dad's "wonderful" gift. Mom hinted that I should give Dad a call, so I obliged and rang him up.

Dad and I spoke for some time, and it was lovely. At the conclusion of our conversation, I vehemently, with all the authority I could muster and with all my manhood, said, "I love you, Dad." Dad's response was "Easy, cuz."

I couldn't stop laughing.

I couldn't believe Dad was unable to say the words, "I love you." I realized Dad was not going to ever tell me he loved me.

Instead, he chose to show his love for me in other ways. He was happy with just paying the bills, putting clothes on my back, and keeping my stomach full. Although those things were greatly appreciated, I would have preferred Dad to physically show his love as well. It just wasn't in Dad's makeup. He was cut from another cloth.

So, for all you fathers out there (or anyone else), a simple "I love you" goes a long way. Trust me.

Kevin Michael Hatchell

Philadelphia