My Dad

With recent news I’ve taken the opportunity to reflect upon my life and the role my Dad played in it. Over my adult years I have come to really appreciate my Dad for everything that he is. I have always loved my Dad and I have always looked up to him, but I have come to really appreciate the Man and Father he was and is today. Looking back on my life I realize how blessed I was and am to have wonderful parents who were/are loving, attentive, giving, understanding, authoritative, patient, involved, …I could go on and on. They taught me and my siblings a great deal about life and how we are to be as children of our Heavenly Father.

My Dad is a firm yet gentle father who taught us by example and allowed us to grow and learn from our mistakes. I never once doubted the love he has for me. There were times when I made unwise decisions, but my Dad never abused his authority as a parent. He along with my Mom new what was best for me and helped me through rough times. My Dad’s door was always open and I knew I could go to him when I needed him. For that very reason on many occasions I would go to my Dad for advice and for priesthood blessings. He always had a way with words and was able to comfort me.

I have a lot of respect for the Man my Dad is. He is an incredible example to me. Through his example I’ve learned the benefits of working hard and working diligently. Through his example I’ve learned that when you set your mind to something you can accomplish a great deal. Through his example I’ve learned how to be a loving and authoritative parent. Through his example I’ve learned the importance of family and the Gospel. Through his example I’ve learned how to remain faithful during difficult times.

When I learned that my Dad’s cancer came back, I had a difficult time swallowing the terrible news. The moment I got off the phone with my Dad was a moment I will never forget. My life with my Dad flashed before my eyes and I became very emotional. The first thing that came to my mind was that I don’t want him to have to go through this all over again. I don’t want him to experience any more pain. The battle of fighting cancer is very draining physically and emotionally and it may be even more draining this time around. I was overcome with the feeling of wanting to take care of my Dad. He has always been there for me and has always taken care of me; all I could think about was wishing I could be with my Dad physically during his treatments and recovery. All I could think about was wishing I could fight this battle for him so that he wouldn’t have to go through it again.

My Dad has always been emotionally strong and remains strong even while he is fighting cancer. His faith helps me to be strong and to remain faithful during such a difficult time. After dealing with my emotions I realized that my Dad’s life is in the Lord’s hands. While I cannot take my Dad’s pain away, I know that our Savior can help lift his burden and help him fight this battle. My Dad is very faithful and I know that he will be strengthened by this experience, as will our family. I am just so grateful and feel so blessed that this Man is my Dad and I am so grateful for all the priceless memories I have of him. I look forward to many, many more great memories to come. I love you Dad!