Life is much simpler with a road map

Today is father's day. I called my dad to wish him well. I started thinking about father's day and specifically my father. While I despise holidays for the sake of having a holiday and some retailers in the world being able to sell a couple hundred more ties or fishing poles or ice chests, I do agree with the need to honor our fathers.

Growing up I never realized just how much my father taught me either directly or through example. In fact growing up I just didn't understand him. Somewhere along the way my perspective shifted. I now realize that I am in fact much like him and I am extremely proud of that. The more that happens the more I realize (and accept) the fact that I couldn't have any better person in the world as a role model.

Daddy if you read this let me say that I know raising a son is not the easiest task in the world and more importantly putting up with me for 22 years is definitely not any easier. But one thing is for sure...I am glad that you did.

My father is a simple man. Something that I have come to admire and respect in him. He taught me how to be a man. Now I know this doesn't seem far fetched, that is kind of in the job description of being a father, but my dad took it a step further. HE taught me that there is more to being a man than being tough or chasing girls, or all of the other crap that most sons are force fed from day one. HE taught me so many things that I don't have the time or the energy to list them all...but I will list a few of the most important ones.

He taught me that no matter what the consequences you should always do the right thing. Family is more important than anything else in this world. HE showed me honesty and integrity are the foundation for any relationship, whether it is business, friendship, or romatic in nature. He clued me into the importance of being consistant in todays everchanging world (NO matter what I could always count on my Dad to be consistant, even if that meant that he consistantly told me no.) He showed me that when life gets you down then it is time to stop your whining and do something about it. He showed me that there is more satifaction in doing something the right way than trying to do something the easy way. He also showed me the value in working hard for everything that you got.

I know that it wasn't easy on him or me at times, but I do know that we are both better people for it. I look back and realize that God didn't bless my dad with a son...he blessed me with a father!

Thanks Dad, I love you and I appreciate eveything you have done for me.