Sunday, June 21, 2009

Dear Dad

Dear Dad:



It's another of those days - those days that remind me you are no longer here. You'd be disappointed to hear that I worked today, as did Hubby, because our jobs are completely out of control right now. You'd be more disappointed to know that we cancelled celebrating with my other Dad - Hubby's Dad - because of work.



But I remember that you also understood. I remember you getting up in the middle of the night to answer the call from your job. I remember you working hard and rarely complaining. I remember you and Mom always being sure that we were safe, warm, fed, clothed, and happy.



I believe that you and Mom gave me the best life possible. And I know, because of this, I'm a happier person today. I guess life wasn't perfect. I guess we were like most families - a functioning dysfunction of a sort. But I can honestly say I don't remember any unhappiness as a child. My only regret is that my half-siblings, your kids, couldn't have known the stability and love that you and Mom were able to give me. I know that was a regret you had to live with too.



I hope you felt you lived a good life. I hope you felt loved not only on Father's Day, but every day. Because you were. For all the imperfections you had, for all the imperfections I had, I knew you loved me and I hope you knew I loved you too.



It's been six years since you left us Dad, but you are in my thoughts always. And every decision I make always involves a consideration of what you and Mom taught me and the values you instilled in me. Because of this, I believe I've always? well...often...taken the right turn.



Thank you Dad.
Love you.
W.