Father’s Day – Celebration, Reflection and Purpose
Whenever Father's Day rolls around my thoughts always turn to Dad, who isn't physically here any more. He passed away several years ago. I think of him many other days, as well, but especially on Father's Day. It's a day that I'm reminded of all the things he taught me, spoken and unspoken, both good and bad. It's a day of reflection for me, as a dad, just as much as it's a day of celebration for all the "dads" in the family.
I think about the fact that I know how to treat my children fairly, lovingly, firmly, graciously, humorously and seriously because of my dad. I think about how I can treat my wife respectfully, humbly, lovingly, playfully, and compassionately because of my dad. I know how to take care of my pets, work on a car, mow the yard, use a hammer, play a musical instrument, and speak (relatively) well with correct grammar. I know how to relate to others, tell a bad joke or pun, use common sense, and throw a baseball and football. All because of my dad.
There are so many more things I could list that I learned from my dad, but there's no need. You get the point. And as I reflect about my dad on Father's Day, I reflect on myself, as a dad to my own kids and the kids I've taught in the classroom, and I like to believe that my dad is proud of me and the lessons he taught me.
To all fathers, have an awesome Father's Day - and keep up the good work!