My Father's Eyes

Today is the birthday of one of the most important men in this entire world - my father. I know I may be biased, but that doesn't make me wrong. My father has changed this world we live in for the better. He has made a positive impact on the people he has known and served, and the influence of his unconditional love, support, and Christ-like attitude will never fully be known to any one of us.

There was a song sung many years ago by Christian artist, Amy Grant. The song is entitled, "My Father's Eyes" and it relays the message of Christ's love and view of people. The singer wants to have her Father's eyes - "Eyes that find the good in things, when good is not around. Eyes that find the source of hope, when hope just can't be found. Eyes full of compassion - seeing every pain. Knowing what you're going through and feeling it the same. Just like my Father's eyes." I realize that the song is talking about our heavenly Father, but I have never heard it or sung it without thinking about my earthly father. You see, I am truly blessed. My earthly father points to my heavenly Father every day of his life - without words, without lectures, without disapproving looks. In his daily walk, love, acceptance and attitude my dad has his Father's eyes. I have always been able to see Christ's eyes in my father. I guess some preachers talk the talk, but don't walk the walk. That's not true with Daddy. Even at his lowest moments, hardest moments, saddest moments, he lives for Christ and SHOWS us through example how to truly live life.

I want to have my father's eyes. I want to have my father's voice of reason. I want to have my father's people skills. I want to have my father's sense of humor. I want to have my father's ability to handle tragedy with grace, emergencies efficiently, stress with a level head, and happy times with joy. I want my father's ability to love unconditionally, support tirelessly, rescue when need be, advise clearly, and make the best of situations.

Daddy drove 1 1/2 hours to come to my oldest daughter's pre-k graduation. The little ceremony lasted about 15 minutes and with the picnic, maybe 45 minutes. I commented that I was sorry he had a 3 hour round-trip for an hour event. His reply was, "That's not the point. The point is for B to know how important she is." Each of my dad's children and all of his grandchildren know how important they are to him! I hope he realizes how important he is to each of us!

Thank you, Daddy! I love you! Happy birthday!