“Any man can be a father . . . it takes a special person to be a Dad." – Unknown
My Dad was like your Dad – the BEST Dad ever!
He was the strong, dependable figure of our childhood; the take-charge guy when things got tough. Wasn't he the one who mended our bruised egos; who allayed our fears, dressed our wounds and strengthened our characters? He provided a shelter from the storms of our sadness; a safe haven from the misery of our failures and excesses.
Dad was in such a hurry for us to grow up, so that he could view the world through our eyes. He couldn't wait to take us places – carnivals and parades, the park and the zoo, to church or to school. He tried to capture every moment from our very first steps to our walk down the aisle?
He taught us how to ride a bike, mount a pony, fly a kite, swing a baseball bat, strum a guitar or match wits at the chess board like a genius. Dad walked the dog, fed the birds and trimmed the grass. He stretched the limits of our imagination; encouraging fresh ideas in our minds and compassion in our hearts.
He took great pride in our accomplishments, big or small, always beaming with joy whenever we hurdled a new adventure - kindergarten, spelling bee, dance recital, prom, entrance exams, swimming lessons, first love, first job, first everything. He was there at all the significant moments, looming large over us with his reassuring presence, speaking volumes with his gentle silence.
He loved Mom and lived out his wedding vows every day; setting the perfect example for both sons and daughters. Sons learn how to treat women by watching their Dads. Daughters gage themselves on how well Mom fared in the marriage deal. We smiled when he opened doors for Mom. We listened closely when he complimented her on how radiant she looked in that new dress, or expressed his appreciation for all she did.
Suddenly, he’s gone too soon. The void he creates is like a gaping hole - deep and hollow, permanent and irreplaceable. But he never truly departs. He remains in our memories - the hero of our early days, a fountain of wisdom and compassion, the rock from where we draw courage and resilience. He lives forever in our hearts, even when all that stares back at us are photographs that time cannot erase.
Our Father, who reigns is heaven, Blessed be the fathers! Let the example of their faith and love shine brightly. Grant that we, their sons and daughters, honor them always with a spirit of profound respect. Help make me a more patient, Godly and loving Dad. Amen.
