Thank You, Dad

 
Thank you, Dad, for:

• Your playfulness and love of laughter, even at your own expense.
• Being willing to challenge your own tribal beliefs -- and change them.
• Getting sober in 1974 and, more importantly, doing what it takes to stay sober and get well.
• The consistency of your evening routine: dinner -> hair mussed -> walking around in your underwear -> 7:30 bedtime.
• Your sincere interest in connecting with and learning about other people, their lives and histories.
• Teaching me how to drive a stick shift (cuss words included).
• Your loyalty to family, friends . . . and the Gonzaga women's basketball team. :)
• Finally buying yourself a new(er) car!
• Setting a powerful example of working with others, enjoying life and actively staying in touch with friends.
• Being able to find a common denominator with pretty much anybody.
• Knowing how to balance work, rest and play.
• Walking alongside me during some very dark times.
• Honoring your daily need for downtime and solitude. (That's hereditary too.)
• After 35+ years sobriety in AA, telling me there's no end to the riches and spiritual growth in Alcoholics Anonymous. I love sharing this journey of sobriety with you, how close it's brought us. Joseph Campbell said, "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek." So true.

Yet another quote by Clarence Kelland on my for dad candle, which I created for you, expresses it perfectly: "He didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it."

Happy Father's Day, Dad, I love you.

Comments

[Createjoy10]

Your Dad sounds like a wonderful man. Blessings to you and your family. (and Joseph Campbell quote no less!)You rock. Be well and have a beautiful day.