Dad, it’s me. I want to tell you something. So many times I’ve imagined myself mustering up the courage and yet once in your presence, my courageous flame flickers, and just like that, I find myself saying something of no real importance just to allow myself a somewhat dignified exit.
Whether you are still in this world or have moved to the next, today is the day I will fan my flame of courage.
Dad, when I was young, there was a lot about you I didn’t understand. I had so many questions about your behavior and was too timid to ask. I saw you live life without uncertainty and whatever you did, good or bad, you did it in a manner that displayed confidence. Because of work, you weren’t around as much as Mom, but when you were, I wanted your attention. When I got it, everything was right with the world. Your eyes and smile directed at me made me feel unstoppable. The days there was no trace of them, made me feel insecure. I often wondered how I could put the twinkle back in your eye and the smile back in its place. I loved it when you teased me; in a way, it gave me comfort. Memories of you when I was young are like bittersweet chocolate. You could be scary at times and at other times you were my place of safety. You were my favorite playground and your arms never seemed to tire. You taught me things I still use today. I learned a lot about who you are just by listening to you and your buddies sitting around telling stories.
Now that I’m older, I better understand the pressures you were under; as a dad, a husband, an employee, a man. Now I know life sometimes gets the better of us and days can be long and hard. Demands never cease and bills never quit coming. I know you did your absolute best.
So, what I really wanted to tell you is this…Being a man in this world doesn’t allow for much error. It’s a tall demand. So, thank you…for all of it. The time spent teaching me how to work things and fix things, the sternness that was necessary to get me back on track, the stories I overheard, the invaluable lessons you taught, for the grace you extended when I blew it, the roof over my head and the food on the table. You had to carry the burden of knowing that your choices affected all of us. I forgive you where you got it wrong and I appreciate all the times you got it right.
You are my dad and I love you.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads. Your role is tough. Thank you for rising to the challenge. Check out some specials just for YOU!
