Its Fathers day and a few days ago was my dad's birthday. So what better time than to write about him. I love my dad so much. I know many people say that and so it becomes a little normal or nonchalant, but I really do. The older I get the more respect I gain for my dad. He is one of the most patient and kind hearted people I've ever met. Throughout all of my struggles he has sat by me and simply listened, or rubbed my back while I cried. He gives me hope when I am down. He helps me feel good about my decisions in life and is one of the greatest supports in my life. As I continue on in my education, I also gain a deep respect for my father. He can understand my struggles because he has experienced them. He rejoices with me when I get a good grade and gives me much praise, which is something that I personally need. But helps keep me positive if something doesn't go as expected in school. Since I am a person who needs much affirmation and positive energy, he knows me well enough to understand that I need that without me ever pointing it out to him. He doesn't try to fix all of my questions or push me to do things. He listens, provides wisdom if I ask for it, and provides his love and concern.
One thing I love my dad for is how great he is with my mom. They're a normal couple with their disagreements but he treats her so well. I hear them laughing together all the time and he cares for her whenever she is in need. I have talked to my mom a lot about their relationship but have never really seen or heard anything from my dad about it. (You know how quiet my dad is) But while we were driving home from our cruise, I saw something that I had never quite witnessed before. My mom was asleep in the front seat (she LOVES sleeping when we travel) and my dad was eating sun flower seeds, he tends to eat them when he gets tired because they help to keep him awake. I could tell my dad was tired and I had offered many times to drive, but even if I had taken the opportunity to drive I know he would've stayed awake in fear of getting lost or something. But my dad kept on saying no and turning down my offer. (Pretty much like any other man out there) As he was chewing his sunflower seeds, I saw him give out a big sigh and put his had on top of my mom's hand. He was tired. Normally when he does this my mom sleeps through it or gives a little grunt. But this time my mom woke up, looked at him, squeezed and rubbed his hand in return. No words exchanged. Just a touch and it was like he felt like he could continue with my mom there beside him. He loved my mom enough to turn to her for support.
I'm sure I have seen affection between them many times but for some reason this really stood out in my mind. One simple gesture has shown to me how much he cares for mom and how their marriage isn't just something light and fluffy with romance and little hearts, its a companionship of love and trust. I saw a vulnerability in my dad that day that made me appreciate him even more. He has never been too manly to not be loving, which is, to me, the ultimate sign of a good dad. Someone who is loving and supportive but teaches and guides you in the right direction without allowing worldly concepts and ways of life getting in the way of his potential and calling as a father.
I love my dad so much and have so much gratitude towards my Heavenly Father for blessing me with such great parents.
Happy Father's Day Dad.
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