{ He’s the best (DAY 469) }

There are some people in life who come in and out.  Some profoundly change your life.  There are those that stay but they are rare.  A very few have been there all along.  My father has been there all along and for that I am deeply grateful.  I wish you could have the privilege of meeting him.  I feel sorry for everyone who can’t.  Because he’s amazing.  He’s gentle and oh so strong.  He’s been such a rock for our family.  He’s steady and as an adult I appreciate that calm he always shows even when life is crazy and hard.  My father is the one who has served his family and those around him before he even takes a moment to think of himself.  He’s faithful.  I look at his large rough stained hands and marvel at how precise with small details they can be, even more at times than my delicate ones.  Children gravitate towards him because he actually sees them and cares to ask them about their lives.  He’s a craftsmen and knows when he sees a good cut but he knows people just as well and sees the potential they have often before they see it themselves.

Just like the wood he works with all the faithful years of his life are steadily building into a monument of God’s work in his life like growth rings on a magnificent tree.  He loves Jesus and it shows.  It shows in his generosity.  It shows in his commitment to his family and community.  It shows in his gracious demeanor.  It show in his joy as he creates from anything and everything.  I can’t believe I get to have this man not only as my best friend but also as my father.

Daddy there is no way I can ever say how much I love you or what type of impact you’ve had on my life.  All I know is that where I usually struggle to find words for a blog post this one I could write on and on with ease.  Thank you for loving me so well, challenging me to be all I can be, comforting me when I’m sad, listening to me chatter on, and being an incredible example.  You’re the best!  And I do love you with all my heart more than words could adequately express.  Happy Father’s Day!

Here’s the back story behind these pictures I took… 🙂