I rejoice today with my friends on Facebook who have posted glowing praise of their fathers. I can join them in saying that my Heavenly Father has never let me down. I forgave my earthly father years ago for all that happened when I was a child and even as an adult. The best I can say is that he loved me as much as he was able.
I’ve had great father figures in my life. Daddy Bill Burns ranks at the top of the list. His home (my best friend’s house) was a welcome sanctuary for a young girl/woman throughout high school and college. I still call him that when I see him. I missed him this trip to Ohio but hope to see him next time.
My stepfather (my mother married for the second time when I was 38) was a gem. He always blessed me and encouraged Mother to bless me as well. He was a great grandfather to my guys, once taking them to the Air Force Museum in Dayton when we were visiting. Wilbur died last year and I missed his presence when I went home earlier this month.
Another great dad I know is my friend David. He and Barbara adopted my kids early on and my sons both say he was a great influence on their lives. My younger son said he demonstrated fatherhood to him as no one else. There was a houseful when they were there but David made it a special time for my guys.
My sons’ father is also a great dad. I don’t think he knows what an awesome job he did with the guys as they grew up. He always mixed discipline and correction with humor and got the message he was conveying across more subtly than most. He gave them values they couldn’t get from mom and I am blessed to see my sons be awesome as men.
I am grateful to be able to say today that Father’s Day is not painful as it once was. My Heavenly Father shows me clearly that I am loved, cared for, protected and cherished. I am truly His daughter and I celebrate Father’s Day enjoying His blessings and giving thanks for the wonderful fathers in my life.