It makes me sad to think that some people don't know who their dad is, especially because I've been blessed with one of the best. From the time I was young I remember my dad always being there for me. He's always been a great listener and patient as the day is long. He's a natural leader, one who respects others and expects respect in return. He is one of the most non-judgmental people I've ever met and is quick to forgive. When people have wronged him he has been quick to look at the lessons learned from the situation or has forgiven them. Don't get me wrong. He may be quick to overlook people's faults, but he's not a pushover. He'll confront people and attempt to talk out issues when needed. But, overall, he's an easy going guy who knows life is too short to sweat the smaller things.
He's always been a hands-on dad. I used to lay on his lap in the evenings, watching TV. Or we'd pull out a board game (I personally liked Monopoly) to play. He'd lead us in family devotions and read to us. When he went on business trips, he'd bring home rental cars that always lead me and my brother on treasure hunts for the loose change that "people" would drop all around the car. As I got older, his hands-on roles became different. In high school, he spent endless hours helping me with Math (to no avail). He helped me obtain my first job at a local flower shop. He took me out on Father/Daughter dates.
Now, as a mom to two adolescent boys, he's quick to give me parenting advice. He listens when I call just to chat or when I need help solving a problem. He prays with me over the phone. And, at the end of most phone calls, he says, "You know if you need anything, day or night, all you have to do is call." That simple statement speaks volumes for how he wants me to know he's always available to help me no matter how old I get or how far away I live.
Speaking of where we live, he (and my mom) have always made it a point to visit us at every house we've lived at so he can see where we live and create memories in our space. It's important to him to support us (even when he doesn't agree with us) and to see for himself where we call home.
He enjoys being a hands-on grandparent to his 4 grandkids. When we visit him, he teaches the boys new things. He plays tennis with them and watches them play ball in the backyard. He sets up the tent so they can have campouts in their backyard, which is always a favorite of the boys. He takes them fishing and helps get the catfish off the hooks when the boys aren't comfortable doing it. He talks sports with P and asks him questions to engage him and learn from him. But, most importantly, he invites the boys to do nightly devotions with him and my mom. He has always known his role as a spiritual leader. He's led by example with his quiet, yet undeniable, faith in God. He is quick to give God the glory and pray for others. The boys see that and, I pray, learn from that.
So, today and every day, I am thankful for my dad. I am thankful for the example he's provided for me and my brother ever since we were little. I am thankful that he's always been there and continues to support us, even as adults. I know it sounds cliche, but my dad is my hero and I am so thankful that God blessed me with him.
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