A Hug for Fabulous Fathers

Today is Father's Day and I'm so grateful for the chance to honor the important fathers in my life! First and foremost, that starts with my own father. My dad was such a good teacher of the importance of work and the dedication to God—two values that have served as my guiding principles from the time I was born to this day. He instilled in me the strength to pursue my dreams and to never fear hard work. I think that's because he was such an extraordinary example of that himself…and he still is! I love my dad.

Perhaps the father I see "in action" the most is my husband, David. What I love about David as a dad is that he is fun and playful, always embracing the joy that life has to offer and sharing that so freely with our children and now, their children. I think that's such an important quality, particularly in a world that is so full of turmoil and uncertainty. When children see dad smiling, laughing and rejoicing in the simple pleasures of life—a silly joke, a sunset, a drive in the mountains—I think it gives them a sense of comfort, of calm, that everything is going to be OK no matter what.

As many of you know, David is a member of Search and Rescue. Just last week, he was called up to search for a young hiker who had been missing in Provo on "Y" mountain for several days. David was part of the group who found this young man's body and helped in the airlift recovery effort. This hiker's parents had driven in from out of state to help with the search and were most certainly devastated by the discovery of their son's tragic death. As I watched David participate in this important and heartbreaking effort, my admiration of him only grew: even in times of great tragedy, he could see the importance of his role, the beauty and fragility of life, and the importance of celebrating every moment we live. He treats these difficult situations with such great respect and care, and I watch him return with an even greater zeal to serve, to love, and to make life rich and full for his family. How I love
him.

 

 

And of course, today I also honor the fathers of my grandchildren, my son Jared and son-in-law Jason. They are both such fine men, willing to sacrifice for their families and to give everything they have to protecting and presiding in their homes. I see the love and trust radiating from their sweet children's faces and my heart is full.

I hope you're enjoying celebrating the wonderful dads in your life, as I am. They make such a difference, and they deserve to hear how much you care!