Fathers

After watching A Father Indeed on our church website, many thoughts came to my mind of fathers who have influenced my life.  A father that strives to be an example and provides for his family is invaluable.  My father has always been an example to me.  As I face the challenges of fatherhood, I find the values he taught me through his example provide guidance when making decisions.

I am fairly certain Dad had many interests he put aside to spend many hours with his children and with his church callings.  Yet, he never complained or seemed to be disappointed.  I know he really wanted to take up windsurfing, but never really got a chance to do it on his own.  Each time he got out there, a kid jumped on the board with him.  This couldn’t help when he was trying to balance and catch the wind, yet he didn’t complain and kept on trying.  He sacrificed his time and mornings to teach seminary while we were of seminary age.  I am sure he was discouraged when his son was sleeping in the back, but he kept on studying and teaching and never gave up on him.  That example, and the influence it had on my life, encourages me as I strive to teach my children.  There were certainly times of frustration, but he never gave up and consistently expressed love and encouraged us to be better.

There are too many examples of the efforts my father made to raise us and be an example to list on one blog post.  I wanted to share publicly my appreciation for what Dad has done for me.  There isn’t enough room or time to write the many thoughts, memories, and lessons learned that have come to my mind while writing.  Thanks Dad for all you have done and continue doing.  I love you and appreciate your sacrifice!