My Dad

When I was a kid I would be asked questions like, "who is your hero?" My answer was always the same, "my dad!" What do you want to be when you grow up? "My dad!" What's your favorite thing to do? "Throw the football with ..." you guessed it "... my dad."

As a boy, I knew my dad would save me from anyone or anything. It didn't matter how far apart we were, he would find a way to be with me. As a teenager, something I took for granted is that he would be at every concert, show, nearly every game, and all important events, even if he did live 2 and a half hours away. Since as early as I can remember, he was my biggest fan and best encourager, regardless of my "stage." As a man, he's the one whose phone has always been on for me to call whenever I needed to vent, cry, or wind down. My dad and I have always shared our greatest interests which ultimately led to several endless conversations about nothing in particular. We've shared memories from late night movies and countless car rides from Lubbock to Amarillo and vise versa to big trips to Los Angeles and a Dallas Cowboys game. My dad is the greatest you could ask for and, to put it simply, he is my best friend.

For those of you who don't know, my dad passed away unexpectedly last March. I've found peace and understanding about my dad's passing and have proceeded living a life of happiness and laughter. But, as anyone could tell you who has lost someone very close, there will be good days and there will be bad days. Yesterday was a tough day: I had a very stressful day in the office, I was tired, and, as silly as it sounds, it was Opening Day without my favorite person to relish it with. I just felt beat up. I woke up this morning and thought of his nearly daily text messages that would begin my day when I read, "Good morning, son! I love you." Sometimes people may ask me, 'what can I do to help?' or 'what do you need?'

The answer is still the same, "my dad."

NOTE: Don't get me wrong, other people have lifted me and encouraged me in ways that words cannot describe. People have stepped in and added presence that needed to be filled and for that I thank you. My mother and step-mom both have shown an unbelievable amount of strength and understanding. And I can't even begin to explain how incredible Jacinda has been and continues to be the best encourager and most loving wife I can imagine.

Check back tomorrow and I will share an article I wrote for our church bulletin a few months back about how I saw the family of God fill my need for family.