Father’s Day, 2016

 

          "That man is successful who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much, who has gained the respect of the intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.” --Robert Louis Stevenson

 

Dear Dad,

          I love this quote from Robert Louis Stevenson. It perfectly describes you. I have learned through the years, beyond a doubt, that you are unique and special among men, especially fathers. There is barely a day that goes by that I don’t appreciate how lucky I was to have been brought up by such a dear man. You gave me the precious, priceless things that others spend their lifetimes hoping to experience and claim:

 

Unconditional love.

An optimistic perspective.

A core belief that I was important and special.

A core belief that others are important and special.

The anchor of spirituality.

A belief in the goodness of life. 

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          I didn’t have to search or fight for these. They were given to me by example and they are my heritage for which I am eternally grateful. I love you. Thank you for all you have given to all of those around you. Thank you for giving me the freedom to experience life, knowing that, despite the ups and down, the light and dark days, the celebrations and the challenges, that really, all is well.

 

BIG HUG AND SMOOCH

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