Father’s Day. One day. Out of 366 days (this year), fathers get one day of honor, recognition and appreciation. Clowns get a whole week, (the first week in August) and chickens get a month (September). I guess I feel a little better that mothers only get a day, too. They definitely deserve a whole month. Thanksgiving only gets a day, too. That’s not right.
I guess if every day was Father’s Day, it would lose some of its ‘specialness.’ It’s nice to be appreciated and get those funny cards. My cards this year said something about me being the nut that started the family tree, and one hilarious, yet derogatory commentary on my golf game.
A few years ago, four to be exact, Father’s Day took on a new dimension. That was the year I became a grandfather. Okay, technically it’s one generation removed from being a father, but it’s still the same bloodline, and I want some credit. The grandkids wouldn’t be here without me. This year, I am blessed to have three grandchildren on Father's Day. I am thrice blessed, thrice crowned. Sure they are almost always louder than my decibel comfort level, and they can make a mess out of a clean house in a few short hours, but there is nothing quite like the joy of grandchildren.
A week or two ago, our oldest grandchild, Ethan, was talking on and on about his best friend. He has been known to have those random 4 yr-old thought patterns. Add to that his active imagination and creativity and you can only imagine the conversations we have. We never know what's coming next.
This day, he kept going on and on about his best friend. Someone in the room finally asked him, "Who is your best friend?" He looked around the room, pointed to me and said, "Papa." In that moment, Ethan could have asked for the moon and Papa would have figured out a way to get it for him.
We’ve been known to butt heads a few times, Ethan and I. Probably because we’re too much alike. Then there is that 42 year age difference. But love is more powerful, more tolerable, more forgiving. Love bridges generation gaps and volume preferences and being splashed with water from the pool. Peter was right..."love will cover a multitude of sins." 1 Pet. 4:8. Ethan still loves me, and I'm his best friend...at least for now.
I love you, Ethan. I hope I'm always one of your best friends.
Papa loves you, Grace, my little princess.
I love you little Taylor. (TayTay)
I’m blessed to be able to see you take your first steps and learn to ride a bike and throw a ball and run and laugh and play. You are the crown of this 'old' man.
Enjoying the Journey,
David
