83 years and counting!
“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” Robert Luis Stevenson
My dad turns 83 today, and I've been thinking about him even more than usual.
I think about him when I see a plant I don’t recognize and know he’d know what it is.
I think about him with every political news report knowing he would have a strong opinion.
I think about him when I fuss at my kids for leaving lights on.
I think about him as I’m catching up on my “Read the Bible in a Year” plan because I KNOW he’s going to ask me about it the next time we speak.
I think about him when I use duct tape.
I think about him when I add hot sauce to my eggs or ketchup to anything.
It occurred to me this week that I've been married longer than I lived with my parents. What in the world?! My childhood was a long time ago.
How is it that something so far in the rear-view mirror still impacts me today? I’m amazed that the “nurture” part of me still has such clear beginnings and implications even now.
It’s like a seed that is finally taking hold; roots below the surface acting as grounding, settling force. I didn’t always appreciate the process, as I liked being untilled soil.
He has given me his love for food on the grill and lemons fresh off the tree. He has shown me how to love books and tell a good story. He has taught me the power of forgiveness and prayer. He doesn't suffer fools well and has given me more than a bit of salt in my language.
But Dad was put in my life for a reason. As he will tell you, he was far from a perfect father and I was far FAR from a perfect daughter. But he has left a mark.
He is a man whose impact will be felt by my children and my children’s children.
I am grateful for him and his 83 years.
And yes, I learned a thing or two about plants along the way.
Happy Birthday Dad! I love you.