June 18th, Father’s Day 2023

Dad –

Happy Father’s Day! It’s been months since I wrote last. Many days I wanted to stop and write. Sorry I did not make the time. I am going to work on making the “me” time to do that. Anyway, since December we have made it through some fun times, some hard times, and some times were life lessons were learned. Lia has worked through challenges with girl drama. Dillon is learning what it is like to work with or to serve disgruntled people. The fun jobs of parenting, right?

The other day I read a devotion with the scripture verse from Proverbs 17:6-Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children. This scripture verse made me think of you, Dad. Your grandchildren were the absolute joy of your life. You loved it when Lia would climb up in your chair with you or sit out under the tree with you. You laughed when she would show you her belly button. You enjoyed watching Dillon play sports. You loved having someone to stop and get a donut or an ice-cream cone with. You enjoyed having the kids on your 3-wheeler. Your face would light up when they were there for a visit (most of the time). 🙂

Now the second part of the verse made me think, parents are the pride of their children. Have I spent too much time focusing on their successes? Have I encouraged or discouraged Dillon and Lia with my words? I know I still need to push them to always do their best; however, are they seeing me do my best? Or do they just hear me complain about a situation at work or complain about certain individuals? I want them to learn work ethic and to take pride in my accomplishments, whether personal or career. Do they see me experiencing bliss or do they always think I am stressed or tired?

Dad, thank you for allowing me to have pride in you. Even though you had moments of feeling you didn’t always measure up to others, know I was always proud of you. I was proud to be your daughter. I was proud of your work ethic, your loyalty, and your drive. I was proud of what you provided for our family. I was proud to ride and sometimes drive your blazer with the Yosemite Sam mud flaps. I was proud to have your support when facing challenges and your support when raising children. Even when you were facing health challenges you could enjoy life. You would still fight to do the things that brought you joy. Thank you Dad for showing me that even when you are dealt a hard hand you can still have bliss. I love you Dad! I don’t know what you get to experience in Heaven on Father’s Day, but I hope you caught the biggest fish today.