I Love You, Dad

Today I would like to honor one of the people who has shaped me into who I am.  

Each of you know how dear my Mother is to me, if not by knowing me through the years, certainly by my recent focus of her on her birthday.  You know I would credit my Mother for much of what I am today.  It was her example in many ways that made me cherish being a wife and a mother, and next to being a Christian, there is no other priority higher than these two things in my life. But my Mom did not contribute to my life alone, in fact, apart from the extravagant devotion of her loving husband, I know she would not have been able to care for nine children in the way that she did.   

My Dad was dedicated to his wife and his children. Working long hours for years as a Professional Engineer, he was a successful man, and yet refused several times to move his family to a city or state that would not be conducive for raising a family.  For years, my Dad literally traveled two hours (both ways) by train to work,  so my family could be raised at the beach instead of in New York.  After relocating to Charlotte, he eventually resigned from a prosperous company in order to keep his family down south.  

Beyond being a hard worker, my Dad was/is a family man. Fishing, hiking and camping trips were not unusual occurrences. Dad loved to take the kids off Mom's hands for an outdoor excursion.  He also cheered us on at sports, taught us how to ice skate, celebrated and encouraged our talents, and entertained us on vacations. Dad enjoyed the children, singing songs, telling jokes and playing games were a way of life for our family.  He didn't mind giving the baby a bottle, or getting up at night with an infant so Mom could rest.  At times, he even tried to help out in the kitchen, but Mom wouldn't have that!

However, what I respect the most about my Dad, besides his loving, consistent care for his family was his unceasing love for my Mother. There was nobody that compared to his beautiful bride. My Mom was loved well. Regularly lavishing gifts, flowers, and cards upon her, as well as highly commending her in front of others, Mom knew he was smitten. 

It has been difficult seeing my Dad's heart broken. No one in my family has felt the sting of Mom's death quite like my Dad, and that is saying a lot, as dear as she was to all of us.

Since Mom died, I have seen a new side to my Dad.  A humility, dependency and thankfulness towards the Lord that has sharpened me.  I am challenged by it.  His mind is on eternal things, and I respect him for that. He is looking forward to seeing his Beloved, yet more and more I believe his "Beloved" is not his wife, but His Savior.

Less than one year ago, my Dad moved into our neighborhood. I am so thankful to have him so near to me now.  We usually see him at least once a week. He is often over for dinner, and to play a game with us and the kids. Now, he lavishes us with gifts and love, rarely coming over with empty hands.  He is always thankful to be with family.  What I'd like my Dad to know, however, is that we are thankful also for him.  For his presence, for his laughter, for his thoughtfulness, for his kindness, for his love.  I love you, Dad.