It's a Hallmark holiday (which some of us in the West remembered a few days ago), yes, but it's still a day worth thinking about: Father's Day. Some of us have poor memories of our fathers; some of us never knew our fathers. Many more of us have really good memories of our fathers; indeed, our fathers may still be part of our lives. Regardless, all of us have fathers.
I lost my father, very unexpectedly, many decades ago, to a heart attack. It was shocking then, and it still is today. Why did Dad have to go so soon? Happily, however, I have many, many wonderful memories of my father. I owe so much to him, not just for taking care of me materially, which he did graciously, but even more for being such a splendid picture of what life could be. Dad embodied for me life's beautiful potential, always encouraging me to consider the nearly endless possibilities of existence. With Dad behind me, I felt as if I could do anything. His simple words, "Do your best," still resonate with me today. He was a father, yes, but he was also a friend, a friend whom I miss every single day.
I am so thankful to God for Dad, so grateful that he and Mom had me, so overwhelmed that God's loving vision bequeathed such a wonderful human being. Having had Dad in my life underscores for me that although life can be thoroughly confusing, it is nonetheless a fountain of immeasurable joy. The world is gloriously greater than itself.Indeed: the remarkable beauty of an intentional and personal universe.
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