Father's Day Thoughts

This Father’s Day I think about the gratitude I have for my Fathers and for the blessing of being a Father.

I first think of our kind and patient, loving Heavenly Father. He is the Father to so many children here on earth, yet he always has time for me. He hears my prayers, He responds to me individually. He gives advice and loves unconditionally. He is there to comfort me, strengthen me, and help me whenever I simply ask. I have never felt Him say he is too busy. He is ready and willing to help whenever I call upon His name. He sacrificed His only begotten Son so that I may be able to live with Him again one day. He has found a way for justice and mercy to coexist with each other for our benefit. How grateful I am for a wonderful Father in Heaven who continually has done nothing but good for me. He speaks to my mind and my heart whenever I simply ask, and as the perfect example of a loving Heavenly Father, he makes time to lead me by the hand and show me the way. I am so thankful for Him.

Ever close to our Heavenly Father is my earthly Father. What an amazing man he is. He has mastered so many of the attributes of our loving Heavenly Father. He is always patient, kind, and thoughtful. He is a righteous man of God who has always led by example rather than words. I have never heard him speak poorly of others and I have never seen him look down upon anyone. In my mind there are three kinds of people in this world. Those who want to do as little as possible and MAY only do something when they are asked, those who will do anything for anyone as soon as they are asked, and those who recognize a need and instantly fill it. My Father is definitely described in the last. I have seen time and time again of his constant service, love, and patience for those around him. He brings out the best in people and helps them to be more. He has always had time for each one of us although there were seven children, a successful career, challenging church callings, and many other organizations pulling for his time. While he is not perfect, he is one of the most perfect people I know. By most any measure he is a success, and, where it is most important he is the most successful. He has always recognized the importance of the Gospel and lived his life accordingly. He has always treated my Mother with respect and kindness and has demanded the same of each of us. He is continually an amazing Father and teacher. Most of all there is no doubt of his love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and brothers and sisters here on this earth. What do I want to be when I grow up? It really doesn’t matter as long as I am just like my Dad.

The kids’ Mom has been on a vacation; therefore, this Father’s Day comes on the heels of having the kids solely with me for the last 12 days. That has been one of the best Father’s Day presents I could have asked for. Sure, the kids were not acting appropriately all the time, and I am sure I did not respond perfectly all the time, but I am so grateful just to have time with them. I cannot express how much of a blessing it is to be a Father, to be entrusted with children of God and be asked to nurture them on this earth. What an amazing gift for a loving Heavenly Father to bestow. Despite all my frailties Heavenly Father still thought I should teach and guide two sweet spirits back to him, and entrusted me to do so. I cannot express the love I have for my children. They mean the world to me. Being a Father is unlike any other experience in this life. It definitely has its challenges. I wish I could say I mastered each challenge perfectly. Fatherhood is filled with all levels of emotions and worry. In the end it is a sweetness that cannot be experienced anywhere outside of the family. I value my time with the kids so much and try to teach them the way our Heavenly Father would want me to. I am so far from perfect, I often question how I am doing, and I certainly should not go around giving advice. Like almost any parent, I only hope for the best for my kids. I want them to be happy, healthy, and successful. I want them to be happy by choice and see importance of the decision to be happy. I want them to be successful, not in the world’s way, but in our Heavenly Father’s way. I want them to feel the deep love that I have for them, and to know that I am always there for them. I have seen many odd looks as I tell people I live with my parents. I am sure I can figure out what many are thinking. While I often joke about it, in reality I shrug it off; in my mind my purposes are clear. I could have a different life; I could have more money, time to myself, “better circumstances” (by the world’s standards), etc. All pale in comparison to the time I have with my children and the love that is mutually felt. How foolish would I be to seek to fit in with the world, seek for money, or other selfish desires? I already have a treasure that is beyond value. I choose to spend the moments I have with them and care for them. If I am never successful by the standards of the world, but my kids know of my love and have learned good things through me, I will die the wealthiest man.