Daddy has been gone now so long. Each year, the feelings are a little different; this year it’s wistfulness and affection. I have more insight into how he was now, and compassion has replaced anger and confusion. We are at peace.

I think about my stepfather – how determined he is to live as best he can, how romantic he is with my mother – and wish I could do more to help to make life easier for them.

I think about the mentors and guides that are gone – I miss them more, not less, as time passes. I was so very fortunate to have known them, and to have been able to absorb (at least some of) their gifts to me.

I think about my fathers and brothers in spirit – dear friends, good men – and I am more grateful than I can express for their friendship and example. Seeing the men I love become good and caring fathers, and grandfathers, adds meaning and value to my world, and to the world.

And I wish my husband – my dear sweet companion and such a wonderful father to our son – a very Happy Father’s Day.

Gratitude!

A Father’s Day Prayer ~ Kirk Loadman

Let us praise those fathers who have striven to balance the demands of work, marriage, and children with an honest awareness of both joy and sacrifice.
Let us praise those fathers who, lacking a good model for a father, have worked to become a good father.
Let us praise those fathers who by their own account were not always there for their children, but who continue to offer those children, now grown, their love and support.
Let us pray for those fathers who have been wounded by the neglect and hostility of their children.
Let us praise those fathers who, despite divorce, have remained in their children’s lives.
Let us praise those fathers whose children are adopted, and whose love and support has offered healing.
Let us praise those fathers who, as stepfathers, freely choose the obligation of fatherhood and earned their step children’s love and respect.
Let us praise those fathers who have lost a child to death, and continue to hold the child in their heart.
Let us praise those men who have no children, but cherish the next generation as if they were their own.
Let us praise those men who have “fathered” us in their role as mentors and guides.
Let us praise those men who are about to become fathers; may they openly delight in their children.
And let us praise those fathers who have died, but live on in our memory and whose love continues to nurture us.

(thank you, dear Rosalie)