15 Years Later
8:57 PM
Has it been that long since we heard your deep voice? When our home was filled with your silly jokes and songs? Was that last hug from you really 15 years ago? Our lives here are like a breath and our days are a passing shadow. Even so, time won’t erase the impact you’ve had on us, Dad.
Often the life and soul of the party, you had a remarkable way of drawing everyone into the fun. People I’d never met said what a great friend you were and how you helped them in so many ways. You made time for them. You valued them. You could make pretty much anyone laugh and snort. I’ve always been so proud to be your daughter.
You weren’t perfect of course, but your desire to be a good father was clear. You showed your love for us through patience and consistency. I couldn’t stand your strict rules and boundaries when I was young, but I’ve grown to appreciate them so much today. I can see the positive ways they’ve shaped me.
You inspired me to be inquisitive and discerning. You wanted your kids to be aware of the many agendas surrounding us. When we’d watch something together you’d ask things like:
“Why did they use that person for this advertisement?”
“Do you think buying that product would have that effect on your life?”
“Why are you surprised about the ending of that film? Can you remember if they hinted to the final outcome?”
“Why did they use that person for this advertisement?”
“Do you think buying that product would have that effect on your life?”
“Why are you surprised about the ending of that film? Can you remember if they hinted to the final outcome?”
I’m grateful how you showed us the beauty of nature and the value of quiet places. You spent so much of your free time building a beautiful lake house for our family. You never brought your work there. It was a place you tried your best to be present. At first we hated going without the TV, but those quiet woods are now our favourite place in the world. I wish we could go more, but thankfully God’s been teaching me how to enjoy His perfect peace wherever I am.
Society has changed a lot since 2003. I wonder what you’d think of it and if you’d be at all surprised? We’re more technologically connected, yet we couldn’t be more disconnected from each other. Britain appointed a 'Minister for Loneliness' this year, because of this problem. Suicide ranks in the top 10 leading causes of death in the USA. People are increasingly hostile, selfish and just, angry. There’s so much fear, confusion and contradiction everywhere I look. Facebook would seriously make your head explode!
Jesus is the only one who perfectly describes the desperate condition of our human hearts. He alone can fully transform a broken and fearful person into someone healed, whole and filled with hope. It’s incredible how much God loves this fallen world, even as they rebel and reject Him. People have such a distorted view of their Creator.
Earthly fathers drastically affect the perception we have of our Father in Heaven. Good fathers are men of action who prepare their children for adulthood. Good fathers take responsibility, are trustworthy and reliable. Good fathers know how to love God, their families and communities.
I was so blessed to have a good, good father! We love you, Dad.
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