Dads leave a legacy that influences us for a lifetime.

For some, the relationship moves us to see the world with optimism and hope. We courageously walk in the world and know that a safety net is always available, a refuge forever near.

While for others, the connection has taught us to be cautious. To live our lives right on the edge of anxiety and anticipation. Hopefulness has been exchanged for a deep yearning, an endless pursuit for acceptance. Our hopelessness causes us to search for more (more value, more self-worth, more…).

Parents (Dads) are the ultimate role models for children. Every word, movement and action has an effect. No other person or outside force has a greater influence on a child…

Bob Keeshan

My Dad died several years ago but our relationship was a melding of the courageous with a healthy dose of hopelessness – never feeling like I was enough. A delicate balance that has left me strong but wondering…

The one thing I remember about him was his eyes. There was a gentleness about them but it was the sadness that caught your attention. Life was hard for an 8-year-old navigating life on his own.

And then there was his smile. It stretched wide across his face and at that moment, his eyes would shift from sad to sweet, mischievous, childlike. Such a paradox – a hard life moved to a glimpse of joy.  

To say that Dad was a complicated man was an understatement. He worked hard, was a man of few words, and a temper that could ignite at any minute. Yet, he always took the time to share what he knew – how to bait a fishing hook, the best ways to plant a garden, his secret recipe for tamales.

He taught me so much.

My tenacity to keep going, regardless of the circumstances, was birthed through him. I can put hammer to nail and come out with a finished product – his teaching. And my love of Chinese food – his influence.

I know he loved me, he told me so. But there were times that his temper caused a wedge. It made me vigilant, not wanting to ignite the flame.

I wished our relationship could have been different, deeper, more… I would have relished more conversations, details about our family, his life with Mom, and more direction for the decisions I made or perhaps didn’t make. A touch, a hug, a word of encouragement meant so much; just a little more would have filled me.

But I know he did his very best, I am forever grateful. I love you Dad…

Our dads make such an important, significant, everlasting impact on our lives. Regardless of whether they are loving, abusive, unavailable, or present, they influence us, and fortunately or unfortunately, we often pass on what we’ve learned to our current and future relationships. We carry their teaching throughout our lives.

Regardless of who our earthly dads may be, despite how they have shaped our minds, we have a heavenly Father that waits for us. He will never disappoint, never miss a need, He is MORE than enough.

BeLOVED, I encourage you,

Pick your Father carefully, thoughtfully, intentionally – He makes a difference.

“I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”

2 Corinthians 6:18 New International Version (NIV)

Be Blessed,