When it comes to parenting, most research focuses on the mother-child relationship, relegating the father to the task of bringing home the larger paycheck and being there to pay the bills. But dads are more than providers. They can make all the difference in the world. Scores of us could never have accomplished what we have in life had Dad not been part of our childhood experience.
Today’s selection is a tribute to the man who was there when I needed him and who set a manly example for me when I just growing up–my Dad.
At Dad’s memorial service, I mentioned four characteristics that made an impact on the lives of his three children.
His first characteristic was his fierce determination. One of nine children, Dad’s early life was tough. But he had the desire to get ahead and so he worked his way through college. His was a "no-excuse-you-can-do-it" attitude and he refused to quit. But his desire to succeed was always tempered with integrity. I never saw him distort the truth or be less than fair with others, even with his competitors. There is little question in my mind that Guidelines would not exist today had he not taught me how to work and given me goals that were worth working for.
The second characteristic I would mention describing my father was his commitment to what is right and just. Always, he felt strongly that there were two ways to look at an issue: his way and the wrong way. His opinion of right and wrong was freely extended to preachers, fellow drivers on the highway, and–yes, certainly to politicians.
Dad was also passionately loyal to his family. Some thought of him as being proud and arrogant. Some even undoubtedly thought his accomplishments got in the way of relationships at times. But with a passion, he was proud of his three kids.
We will also remember his love for God, which he grew up with as a boy but made personal in 1949 when our family heard the Gospel and made a commitment to Jesus Christ. He was an inspiration, a friend, an encourager, and a mentor. Whenever my radio or TV program was aired, whoever was with him had no option to missing it–they heard it loud and in its entirety. For almost thirty-three years he and Mother listened and although I can’t prove it, I still am reasonably sure that he’s still listening. Yes, Dad, I hope you are.
Resource Reading: Ephesians 6:1-9