My father is amazing. Always has been. Sometimes we grow up not understanding the things that our father sacrificed for us to give us a better life. We think that he doesn't know what we need as much as we do. We rebel, we fight and we take way more than we give. Sometimes I remember Fred Sanford's line to his son Lamont "I brought you into this world and I can take you out!!". I guess that is actually true when you think about it.
I remember that although my dad was a stern taskmaster, with eyes in the back of his head which saw everything I did, he never made me do anything that was harmful to me or did not make me stronger as a person. Although he had other responsibilities, he always was there for me to teach me, guide me and discipline me when I needed it (which was more times than I care to count). Yet, his arms are always open to catch me when I fall, hold me when I am in pain or grieving a loss or to give me hugs and pats on the back when deserved. What a guy!
When we lost Diana, Bonny, Craig, Mom, Patti, Matt, Joey and other family members, as well as many friends, that is when my father really stepped up and got us all through it. None of us would have made it without his support and loving, caring nature, knowing what each of us needed and expressing it like nobody else could to help us carry on. And, there was nobody as excited and full of joy as he was during the birth of any child or cheering at any seemingly small accomplishment any of us would have. I guess that is what a dad is for. My father has done his job admirably and still does. He gives me a sense of belonging, a sense of security, a sense of safety and most of all, a sense of love and reminding me day after day whose I am.
You should meet him. He will change your life. You see, my earthly dad died when I was 5 years old, yet I have NEVER felt "fatherless". My father has always been there to meet my needs and I know He will always be there for me. My Father is actually "our" father. In fact, He is "Our Father who art in Heaven". He is there for you too.
Thanks daddy for ALWAYS being there.
