Father’s Day- my dad

Last Sunday was Father’s Day. As a child I always loved Father’s Day because my dad was so worthy of being celebrated. It just felt so appropriate to designate a day to honor him and all that he did for his family. Now, as an adult, and with my dad no longer with us, I remember him every day (and especially on Father’s Day) with gratitude, fondness, and an aching heart to be with him again.

My dad was an extraordinary father. He was, in every sense of it, a gentle, compassionate, and humble person. His words were carried through his actions, and I never once doubted his care or love for me, my siblings, or my mother. With his human imperfections, he did the very best job he could at exemplifying his love for his family.

My dad worked a demanding job in Los Angeles as an entertainment attorney and agent for film composers. After a long day’s work and 2+ hr drive home he would stop at the grocery store on his way home. And, might I remind you, there were eight (8!) kids. Grocery shopping was no simple task. Regardless of any chaos within the home, he always entered with a beaming, contagious smile. He knew that there would never be a house in order or dinner waiting for him, but he never stopped. And he never complained. He would finish the evening by tackling the overflowing pile of dishes in the sink, and by doing all of our scattered laundry. All with a joyful spirit and a smile on his face.

What my father taught me:
Be gentle, even under stress.
Be kind, even under persecution.
Speak softly, even when at your wit’s end.
Think with humility, even if you know you’re smarter.
Bring people up, even when it would feel better to put them down.
Respond to judgement with compassion.
Always have ice cream stocked in the freezer. Eat it straight from the carton when no one is looking.
Use only words that transmit love.
Forgive, even when the attacker is not sorry.
Be patient with everyone.
Work hard, even if your work goes unappreciated.
Everything can be reflected on in an improvised song.
The steering wheel makes for a perfect drum.
Enjoy healthy food.
Workout regularly.
Enjoy listening to jazz.
Improvise a silly song whenever the chance arises.
Beat-box, even if you’re not very good at it.
Dance for your family, even if it means potentially embarrassing yourself in public. 🙂
Explore other beliefs with acceptance.
Bring humor into every situation.

Be forgiving, self-giving, humble, gentle, and loving.

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