Dear Dad:
Tomorrow is Father’s Day and I’ve been thinking about your hands.
They are hands that welcomed work—and even the dirt or calluses that went with them. I learned to work by watching those dexterous fingers, nimbly building something in your shop or assembling a toy or fixing something around the house.
They are hands that pray. As a child, I took comfort in the strength of those hands, folded in supplication to God. It made me believe everything would be all right. And it has been. Because you have hands that pray, so do I.
They are hands that pointed the way. You weren’t afraid to tell us kids right from wrong, and to set us straight, firmly, when we needed it. No wishy-washy with you! That firm hand helped me know what I want in a family, and in a father for my own children. Thank you for helping me choose wisely, love fully, and lead fearlessly.
Ultimately, yours are the hands that hold the world together. That’s what I remembered as I pulled out this photo—it’s you and me, dad, when I was just a few weeks old. I’m so tiny and helpless, but in your hands, I’m safe, secure, protected and directed. Your hands are nearly as big as I am!
In this photo, you’re holding me like I’m the most important thing in the world. You treated me that way, too ... and I believed it.
I love you, Dad.
Jeanette, this is a beautiful tribute to your dad and a lovely layout as well. God bless!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing such a sweet and meaningful moment. I'm deeply touched.
ReplyDeleteThis is just precious. I am often touched when I see a big ol' "he man" cradle a wee babe on his shoulder. It is such a dear remembrance of how God the Father cares for us.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your heart.
Mary
Jeanette, I have to tell you this brought big tears to my eyes. I've been without my dad now for 3 years and I miss him so much. thanks for sharing and cherish every minute you have with him.
ReplyDelete