Last week was my dad’s birthday. I have the honor of working with my dad and even though we had to work I was able to spend the day with him. Today’s post is a letter to my dad.
Dear Dad,
31 years ago I remember mom cooking in the kitchen as I waited in my “wonder woman” (I think I had just thrown together something I thought was superhero-ish) costume for you to come home. I remember you walking up the stairs into our house and being so excited that dad was home.
Two years later that hadn’t changed one bit; we had moved to Colorado and I was so excited those spring and summer night when you came home from work. I felt like we played baseball in the backyard for hours. I so enjoyed that time together.
12 years later, and you coached my softball team. I remember at the time wondering what I did wrong that you were so hard on me. It took me a couple of years to figure out that to be fair to everyone – you were a bit harder on your own daughters. Those seasons were so much fun. I learned to play every position. Again, when I wondered why I couldn’t be a second baseman all the time or third base – just have a distinct position like the other girls. I remember you telling me how much more valuable I would be if I knew all the positions. Even though I wasn’t the strongest player; you taught me very early on if you play all the positions you are much more valuable – you can be anywhere, do anything and see the whole picture of the game a lot more clearly. That translates to life so beautifully – I really appreciate that gift.
Being tough was also something you taught me. One of my favorite stories is when I was playing catcher and the girl coming home from 3rd took me out. I tagged her out, but she still sent me rolling into the backstop. We had other runners on base and you were yelling at me to “get up!” The women sitting in the first row said – “Oh my, he wouldn’t talk to his own daughter like that.” After the play ended I turned to the women in the stands and said, “I am his daughter. ” The shock on their face was priceless. To this day no matter how hard I get knocked down I know you are there to make sure I get back up because the play isn’t over yet. Thanks, dad.
Last, but not least, words cannot express how grateful and blessed I feel to have you as my dad. For 22 years you took care of me, put me through school, fed me, gave me room and board and loved me no matter what. Even after I moved out, much to your dismay, you never stopped taking care of me. You are always there for me, but not just me – my entire family. You are such a wonderful papa to your grandkids. They adore you and look forward to the time you spend together. You give so much of yourself without ever expecting anything in return. You work so hard for all the members on your team, and you are just such a wonderful man. I am honored to be your daughter.
Thank you for everything you are and all that you do.
Love you,
me
Sorry it took me so long to reply. I thought that I could read this once without tears and then reply with someone thing remarkable. But I cannot read this without shedding tears of joy and cannot match your eloquence. Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts. I love you more than words can ever express. You are very special. You always have been and always will be. You never did anything wrong and still don’t. I am glad you understand. Being a parent is hard, as you know. You are never sure you are doing the right thing. One thing is for sure, I just wanted my family to know they are EVERYTHING to me. You always excel at everything you put your mind to. I am so proud of you! I am excited every time I get to see you (and your family.) I can never wait until the next time. I am the lucky one. Lucky that you (your fam), your mom, and your sisters (and fam) are in my life. I am blessed beyond belief. I love you crazy, wild mad (as a dad) … and ALWAYS will!
Now you made me cry. I love you, Dad. You are the best there is. Thank you for everything.