#1 Dad

I can remember as a child all of the goofy things we came up with as gifts for Father's Day.  Pictures drawn, ugly ties, meaningless objects that Dad "needed"- a few useful things like tools, cufflinks, or gift cards for the local hardware store, but mostly "tokens" to try to put into words that which is really inexpressible - how you feel about your father.  I do remember one thing, one gift, one "token" that had simple meaning when given, but today speaks volumes...it was a mug (that's right, pretty useful?)...a coffee mug with a plain cartoon character on it (Ziggy, I think) and it read "#1 DAD."  

As a kid, I had no clue how valuable it was to be able to have a #1 DAD!  As an adult, I now FULLY REALIZE that I am who I am today...largely in part to my #1 DAD!  Dad, today I celebrate you and thank God, my Heavenly Father, for giving me such an incredible earthly father.

Dad...

Thanks for all of the things you taught me...the "How to's" ...how to ride a bike (and take a fall with dignity)... how to mow the grass (with your shirt off...that one didn't stick to well)... how to throw a ball (making a lefty throw right-handed)... how to "do my best" (even to a procrastinating fault :)... treat people with respect...say "yes sir" and "no sir"... mind my manners... eat my green beans (for all the starving kids in Africa?) and say "I love you."

I wish I had a recording of all the things you said growing up and a way to measure their impact, or let you know how they have influenced the most important areas of my life and continue to speak today...  Now that I'm older and a Dad of my own...it's amazing how your listening ear, encouragement, belief and advice continue to give me courage and strength, confidence and resolve...

Really, there is no perfect way to measure the impact of a true #1 DAD, except to look inside the heart and watch the expression of the life...of his children! Dad, you have pointed me in the right direction and helped empower me to follow God's purpose for my life.  Today, I have the great goal to be a #1 DAD to my children, as you have been...and continue to be...to me!

Happy Father's Day...#1 DAD!