By Far the Best Father's Day Present

Father's Day is right around the corner! Have you been racking your mind over the perfect gift? Are you going to spend hours pacing the shopping centers or creating the best gift ever? I surely hope that is not the case. Fathers sometimes deserve more than we can wrap, buy, or give. They deserve to enjoy the entire day...not an hour...with the children they love. So, roll up your sleeves, get out a pen and paper, and truly express how you feel.

True Elder Wisdom

Father=a wise man who teaches. They were put here to: give of themselves, enhance, help, and educate all who are lucky enough to grace their presence. What a perfect gift; listening to their views.Can you think of a more exciting day than sharing stories, memories, and time together? I bet your Dad can't. For those of you who have lost your male patriarchs, this present is still a precious and meaningful one; therapeutic too. Make the trip to your Pa's side and open yourselves up.

Give Them Bragging Rights

Make a picture board. Going through photos and putting them together is lots of fun for everyone; even grandchildren. All the memories and stories associated with each picture; priceless. Grab a few colorful and humorous ones to get everybody rolling. I know you have some of those laying around. Try to locate wallet size photos. Dads love to fill their billfolds with bragging material.

Write It All Out

We do not express our feelings as often as we should. Take this great day to write your Dad the feelings and thoughts you forgot to tell him all year. Don't worry, Dads aren't going to edit your writing; its the thoughts and expressing that means the most. Can't put words on the paper? Why not borough mine? I am writing this to all those special Fathers out there; and the ones we lost.

To My Father

The one person who stands alone with greatness, strength, and respect. Father, you have influenced and molded me to the person I am today. Knowing that I will one day be able to walk in your footsteps brings joy to my soul. Although, I could never fill your shoes; I will be striving to become you till the last breath is taken.

My Dad has "learned" me to always be a good and honest example to every person I come across. My employers are indebted to him. He, alone, has shown me the benefits of never slacking. Giving 110%, minimum, at each job I take on. Not only do you simply need to ask me once--but, you needing to ask shows I wasn't on top of my game. People say you cannot teach common sense, yet, I believe my Father is the reason I grasped the concept and use the skills daily.

My Daddy is the "good deed doer". If you ever needed a hand, he'd lend you two. His heart is bigger than the world. His intelligence, more expansive than that of the universe. His importance, in my life, more critical and precious than the changing of the seasons. When he talks; I listen. When he is ill; I am dying. When he gets wounded; I become his bedside companion. Whenever I was hurting, he simply wrapped his strong arms around; shielding and healing me.

Each time I go to find inner peace in nature--you are right there with me. With each cast, your instructions still linger in my ears. Every fish I catch, I show to you--even though you are not there. In the freezing winter months, you are the one who sits beside me in the tree stand. Ever so vigilant and calming, you keep me company. I still remember the first time you let me shoot that gun...it sure had some kick to it; didn't it? It knocked me on my butt. Silly as it may seem; sometimes all it takes is a familiar scent to bring you back. The aftershave is my personal favorite.

Thank you for teaching me to use my talents. Thanks for allowing me to grow up with the values and morals of a true survivor. I appreciate you more; every passing year. For all the times I disappointed you, I am heartily sorry. I never meant to let you down. It is impossible for any of my words to do justice. I just had to try. Like you always said, I win when I try and loose if I don't. I love you, Dad. You are my mentor, my guiding star, and my true friend.