It’s your birthday…again. Last year I wrote 54
things I love about you. This year, as I was considering what I could do or say
to wish you a happy birthday, first I thought about how blessed I am to have
such an amazing father like you, and then I began to think of some major
lessons you have taught me and how that has influenced me to live the life I do
and to become who I have become…
Thank
you for always encouraging me to do my best, and to never give up. Growing up I
always remember you saying, ” just do
your best and as long as you do your best then that’s all you can do.“ That has been something that has always stuck
with me and I always strived for. So even when I got a D on my report card, it
was okay, because I tried my best. On the other hand, it has challenged me to
always put my best foot forward, to give 110% in all things I do and to be
completely satisfied with the results. This has really led me to accomplish
some amazing things; things I never thought possible! I have always appreciated
that and thrived on that statement.
Another
big thing you have taught me is that if I commit to something I must finish my
commitment and not quit when things get hard or I no longer want to do what I
signed up for. This pretty much goes
hand and hand with the ‘do your best theory.’ Not only has this taught me to
persevere, but it has taught me to make the best of all circumstances even when
that is a difficult thing to do.
Actions always speak louder than
words. I would definitely have to say
that your character has taught me so much. In so many ways it reflects the
character of Christ. You accept others for who they are and love them the same. You have a servant’s heart, constantly putting
the needs of others before your own. You bring out the best in people by
encouraging them in their strengths and offering wisdom and solid advice in
their weaknesses. No matter what the
circumstances you are always content. You are humble, slow to anger and not
easily offended. You are open-minded and make the best of all situations. Even when the situations are challenging and
seem hopeless you are full of strength and optimism. You are diligent and have a consistent attitude
of thankfulness.
I know these may seem like little
lessons, perhaps not even lessons at all, but in my eyes they are huge! Without
them, without you I would not be where I am and who I am today. I cannot say
enough good things about my family, and about you-my father. One of the things that breaks my heart the
most is when I hear of people who have never had a close relationship with
their dad or lack a father figure, because I could not imagine my life like
that. God has blessed me so much! I do not tell you enough how much I
appreciate you…
I know it has been hard for you
with me being away, but I thank you so so much for being supportive of it! Thank you for all you have done for me, for
always being there and just for being you. To say the least, it is such a
compliment, even an honor to me when people tell me how much like you I
am. You
are my hero.
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
eat some ice cream for me! 😉
I LOVE YOU!!!
