Father's Day is one of the days when I honor my dad. Even though he’s been in heaven for decades now, I still think about him because I still love him so much.
When I was growing up, my dad made sure I knew he loved me. He did that best by spending time with me. He did more than just sit me down in front of the TV. He was constantly teaching me life lessons I still rely on today.
Of course, I am saddened that my dad passed too soon. I thank him because he left me with a clear sense of what's important in life. I listened and learned. I never argued or brushed him off. I could never do something so thoughtless. He spent his life loving me. It was my turn to show my love for him.
I was 4 or 5 when my daddy would lounge on the couch in front of the TV, and I'd comb his black wavy hair like little girls do. I might have put in a few of my pink doll curlers.
My dad always had a smile for me. He was kind, caring and considerate. He was helpful, humorous, fun and serious, too. I was a good daughter, too.
I made sure, that there was no doubt in his mind, that I loved him beyond words. I did.I do.
When I was young, I was polite to him with my words like “please and thank you.” I was obedient, although he didn’t order me around. He was polite to me, too. An easy example to follow.
Dad was all about being a dad. A good dad. The best dad.He had this big laugh out loud. I loved it.
My dad didn't use foul language. He never said a bad word about anything or anyone. He was generous. He loved to cook. His food was so good. No one he knew ever went hungry.
When I was older, I’d help out at his restaurants. I took orders, served food to customers, washed dishes and whatever else I saw that I could do. My dad never asked me to do anything. I just helped, cause I wanted to help. It was the right thing to do for my dad.
By the time I had kids, my dad had a habit of dropping off these big huge chunks of meat for me and the kids. I’ve never know anyone to do that in my life. I always had something for him, too.
My dad gave me his time. I never had to wonder when I was going to see him again. I invited my dad to our Elm Street home all the time. He couldn’t alway come, but that was okay. He didn’t have to prove his love by visiting. I already knew how much he loved me and the kids.
I usually offered my help so he wouldn’t have to ask. I thought that was what a good daughter did.
Dad excelled with integrity and compassion. My dad was a good human being. He was my hero. There's no doubt in my mind that my dad was a fisherman. He had a big heart. Good instincts.
Dad gave me many gifts. Good values. Rules to live by. But the greatest gift he gave me was the time he shared with me. He gave me his time.
My honey reminds me of my dad. He has my dad’s qualities. His unconditional love, faith, common sense and kindness. My Honey is incredibly helpful and thoughtful. People say daughters often marry men like their fathers. That couldn’t be more true. I did just that.
On this Father's Day, I thank God for giving me the greatest dad a girl could have, and a kind and thoughtful Honey who makes me feel good about myself everyday.
My honey has been a loyal step-dad, too, who welcomed three children as his own. He’s given them his time, support and loving kindness for 35 years. Step-dads deserve to be recognized, respected and honored for their contribution to the family.