I am blessed beyond belief. Leaving for nine months could quite possibly be the best thing that has happened in our relationship. It has given me a new appreciation for each of you. When I tell you I love you. This is why.
To my Daddio:
Sometimes telling people how I feel about them is hard. I know I tell you I love you everyday, but recently I’ve been thinking about what that really means. To my Daddio who has been the leading example of a Godly man in my life for the past eighteen years. It has not gone unnoticed. The way you love me well and show me how it is to be loved has set such a high standard in my life. To my Daddio who never fails to make me laugh. The laughs we share together are some of my favorite memories and I am convinced you are the only one who can bring those ab killing, silent laughs out of me. To my Daddio who has always been my biggest fan. While there were times you were not able to be there, I always have you in my court. Cheering me on from wherever you are. To my Daddio who has fearlessly led our family. Mom, Nathan, and I are so blessed to have you fighting for us each day. The hours in the office working to support our family for all these years has not gone unnoticed. So when I tell you I love you, I love the example of love you have set, the laughs you bring out, the support you give, the leadership you provide.
To my Momma:
Hey Momma, I love you. I know that sometimes I may seem far away, even when I am at home, but you are always close to my heart. Over the past eighteen years I have had the privilege to be “mommed” by the best out there. My Momma who keeps the household together and sane day in and day out. It may seem like monotonous, unimportant work, but being on the Race I’ve found that it is the most important. To my Momma who always lends an ear, even from across the world. Those talks in the car or on my bed or at the counter mean so much more to me than you know. To know I have someone who has my back regardless of the situation and to know I have not only a mom but a friend has gotten me to where I am today. To my Momma who selflessly serves. You put everyone before yourself each day. Thank you for setting that precedent in our home. Leading by example is something you do so well. To my Momma who is the ultimate chocolate chip cookie maker. Chocolate chip cookie ministry is a real thing. And Momma you’ve got it. So when I tell you I love you, I love your servant heart, your listening ear, your wisdom. And so so much more.
I used to think that the testimony of my family life was not powerful enough because it was too good. While our lives have not been perfect, God has blessed me with two parents who have continually strived for God’s will and direction for our family, for each other, and for themselves. A relationship that has shown me what it looks like to put God in the middle. Parenting that has shown me what it looks like to pour into your kids and encourage them as they are your biggest form of ministry. Careers that have shown me what it looks like to work hard and bring Kingdom.
So to my Momma and Daddio. Thank you. Thank you for being my best friends and biggest advocates. Meet you in the Philippines.
