My Dad...

I ran across a piece of art not long ago. I’m not much of an art collector (married one Art – that was the best) – but when I saw this piece of art I said to myself, “As primitive as it is, I have to have that on my wall!” Art is like that to me. There’s not much art that floats my boat, and I really don’t even think I have good taste. But when I see something I like, I like it.

This picture revived so many memories from my childhood. It was like a thousand flashbacks with no words that could accurately describe what I was feeling or remembering for that matter! Have you ever just felt a memory? That's where I was.

It was close to Father’s Day when I ran across this picture and the rush of emotion bombarded me. Thoughts of my dad and the life that he afforded my family and now, especially, my mom filled me with gratitude.

My mind flitted from one idea to another. I thought it would be so great to write a neat poem to my dad or write him a letter just letting him know how blessed I feel to have been raised by him. But the day came and went, they left on a vacation to Branson, MO, and there I sat. No poem. No letter. No nothing except for a card, a gift card, and Father's Day wishes.

I’ve thought for years on Father’s Day I’d write a cool poem or a great letter to tell him once again how awesome he is. Never happens. Now here I am, straightening up again and here comes that “piece of art” reminding me, again, of what a great dad I have.

I’m not much of a poet so there will be no poetry here. And I can’t seem to write when I’ve put myself on the spot. So, let me just say this…

“Dad, I love you! Happy Father’s Day, again and again and again. You were (and still are) a great dad. Your example prepared us for life with you and without you. You picked an awesome woman to be my mom. Now you care for her and thank her for it daily. People say for better or worse, but for you and mom, it just keeps getting better and better.

“We had fun as kids. There has NEVER been a day in my life that I have wondered if you loved me. I have always known. How many people can say that? You told me, you showed me and you lived it. I loved singing with you when I was young and when I grew up. I loved having “discussions” (arguments) with you about theology. Your willingness to let me speak my mind even when you knew I was wrong allowed me to grow in MY faith. (You knew you couldn't give me yours; doesn't work that way.) You and Mom have prayed me through my life and I don’t know where I would’ve ended up without your faithful prayers.

"You are the greatest dad in the world and I’m so thankful that you’re mine! Happy Father’s Day everyday, Dad. I love you!" Audi

P.S. The artist was me in 2nd grade (Mrs. Windell's class)