You Just Have To Know…

Dear Dad, 

There’s really no gift I could give you that would show the appreciation you deserve or represent the meaningfulness of your life to me. I really can’t even think of a gift you need or want because you choose not to live in need or in want of most things.  Every year we ask each other what we should get you for gifts and we struggle every single time, except the obvious need you have for peanut M&M’s. I almost get frustrated because I can’t see any immediate needs or voids to fill for you. Yet I am coming to realize what a beautiful and unique feature of who you are that is. It is so easy to say you mean so much to me but what does that really mean? Honestly, I’ve had a lot of tears writing this as I consider just how special of a man you are to me and to Mom and Lindsey and the world in general. I wish more people had the experience to know such a special man as I think the world could learn a lot from the way you choose to live life. 

Watching you as we grew up I started to realize how patient of a person you are. With me, with living with all women, with the ups and downs and news and olds of working so many different jobs. You’ve never been quick to get angry when things break or are misplaced. You’re just always there to pick up the pieces when we don’t understand what is happening around us. No matter where the wind blows, the joy you carry when times are good and times are bad is so calming. I’ve never had to worry that things wouldn’t work out with you around. 

Your life is a testament of what it means to live at peace with everyone despite their not so loveable words or characteristics. You display what it means when the Bible says in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” I’ve never seen you not working hard, I’ve never heard you really complain about the work that you do and I’ve never seen you give up on anyone or anything. It’s so admirable. You never seek recognition, gifts, rewards or anything from anyone. 

You’re the Dad that has shown me what it means to love unconditionally despite how that person has hurt you or a loved one. You’re the Dad who has chosen to be there every time he could. You’re the Dad who’s never stopped cheering for his kids. You’re the Dad who has always provided and allowed us to pursue experience without fear of money. You’re the Dad who’s shown us that there is always another opportunity to find a job so it’s okay to take chances and risks on dreams or pursuits. You’re the Dad who has shown us how to live at peace with everyone around us. You’re the Dad who has taught us nature is a never ending mystery and a beautiful place to spend time. You’re the Dad who has taught us our bodies help us go places and accomplish tasks. You’re the Dad who has taught us it’s okay to rest when there’s more work to be done. You’re the Dad who has taught us that Dads can cook and have fun with their daughters if they’re willing. You’re the Dad who has chosen never to judge our decisions but love us through the consequences we’ve faced. You’re the Dad who has shown us that it only takes a little effort to have a lot of fun. You’re ultimately the Dad who has taught us what it means to be loved unconditionally.

I thank you for never ever ever changing who you are based on the pressures of the world. I thank you for loving us and loving Mom even when we don’t make it easy. I thank you for welcoming in our friends and allowing us to be who we are without judgement. You are the type of man this world needs a little bit more of. You are the type of man that I can’t wait to have my kids call “Grandpa”. 

I love you Dad! And I hope if you do have any Birthday wishes you will let us know because you deserve whatever you want plus more. 

I love you a lot and I love every single second we get to spend on the phone.

Xoxo,

   Savanna