My Dad passed away 12 years ago and I miss him still. At certain moments, I miss him so much it makes me sob like a baby. It might be in the middle of the grocery store or while watching a commercial or making dinner. Often, it’s when we are on vacation. Vacation reminds me of my childhood. I look at my children and I wish they knew him. I see grandpas with kids and I wish he was there with his grace and his humor and his charm. His eyes sparkled and his confidence was never shaken. He was a man who was comfortable in his skin and when he was on your side, the world was your oyster.
My dad was warm, funny, intelligent, and kind. He was steady and calm. His advice for a happy life was to work hard, go to church, and love your family. I love the quote by Leonardo Da Vinci that says “Simplicity is the highest form of sophistication.” My dad was sophisticated. He was classy, loyal, and reliable.
My dad was a Marine in World War II. This meant our shoes were always shined and we were fined a dollar if we didn’t wear a belt!! I cringe to think of what he would say about all the young people with their “pants on the ground” today. I wish I had asked more about the war. I wish I knew what it was like and how it changed him.
One time I told my dad I wanted to marry someone like him because, “You know everything.” And he said, “Oh, no, honey, you want to make sure someone marries you because YOU know everything.” Good advice, don’t you think?
Thanks Dad. Thanks for talking to me and listening to me and telling me I’m beautiful and smart. Thanks for thinking I could get into Northwestern (his alma mater) even though there wasn’t even a sliver of a chance that would happen. Thanks for working hard for our family and for taking us to church. Thanks for loving mom and disciplining us (mostly my brothers). Thank you for showing me my own worth, for holding a mirror up to me so I could see what you see. Thank you for being simple, grateful, faithful, and kind. I know that you are with God in Heaven and I know when you arrived, He said, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Well done, Dad. Happy Father’s Day!
Sus- Live for the letter to your Dad. I love that both our Dad’s were marines. God love em. Love you- Am
Sue,
What a tribute to your dad!! I wish I had known him like you described. As I read this to Jerry, both of us became very emotional. Like our pastor said last Sunday, “There’s something special about the relationship between a father and a daughter.” You have described that relationship well. Your dad would be so thankful and pleased to know that you are sharing with others your love for him and how he instilled attributes within you that will never die. (Of course, we know your mom had a little to do with it, too). Once again, Sue, well done and keep on blessing us with your writings.
Love ya,
Marcia
I was “off” all day yesterday. The littlest things made me cry. And then I realized why. I too was missing my dad! It’s an empty feeling to describe and a lonely club to be in. He died four years ago of lung cancer…which he said was the best thing that ever happened to him because it made him realize his need for God.
Sue – I have enjoyed following your blog and am often inspired by what you write. This one, however, made me cry! I’m sure your Dad would be so touched by your memories of him. Aren’t we blessed to have these strong men who shoulder such responsibility and always put their families first? Have a wonderful day. -Sheila
Sue ,
He was wonderful. He loved all of his family with all his heart, mind and soul.
Thank you for writing this . He would be so humbled and pleased.
Mom