Hero's Day

Four months out from being a father, I am beginning to get antsy. I can't wait to see what our little boy is going to look like and whose personality traits he will obtain. More importantly, I can't wait to see what type of child, and eventually man, he will grow to be. I have also been spending many hours reflecting on what type of man I will be for him. I hope I earn the title "hero" in his little eyes... much like my dad did for me. I hope I inspire him to greatness and equip him to chase his biggest dreams... much like my dad has done for me.

I remember believing that my dad could beat up anybody, fix anything, outperform any athlete, and was the smartest man on earth. Though age has proven (most) of those false, it does not negate the heroic title my father has earned.

When I was little my dad:

-would come home from 9 hours of work and immediately join me to play catch before the sun went down. I had been waiting all day and he knew it. I don't recall him ever complaining about "needing a moment" or being "too tired".

-was my coach, sunday-school teacher, church camp counselor, and volunteer youth group leader. He was never too busy for my interests and was never far from being involved in how my character formed.

-ran road races with me because I loved to do it and he loved spending time with me. When I got too fast, he stopped signing up. "I only did them to enjoy time with you. I can't keep up anymore. Go get 'em." Even at 11 years old, I recognized that I was loved and he was selfless.

-would refer to me as "fineyoungson" and say things like "only the best for the best" when shopping for athletic gear or tools. He was genuinely confused when I wouldn't be the high scorer, win the race, strike everybody out, or ace the test. He tried to hide it and I never felt pressured to excel, he was just entirely convinced that I always would. He taught me to believe the same.

As an adult, I am continually reminded that people will have weaknesses and relationships will endure tension. I think this is where most adult sons choose to give up on honoring their fathers in exchange for bitterness, having "believed a lie" that their dad was perfect. Though I am well aware that my dad is far from perfect, he continues to prove himself heroic. He is faithful, he is honest, he is a big giver (with no strings attached... ever), he is selfless, and he is an extremely hard worker. I can't wait for my baby boy to receive love and guidance from a most excellent grandfather.

Happy Hero's Day, Dad. Thanks for being mine.