I spent some time last weekend with some children in an urban outreach.
They were kids from the poorer section of the surrounding area, but you look and honestly spend time with them you realize they just need something simple: love, affirmation, and a sense of security.
I look back at my life and realize the wisdom of two parents in a family unit. That's why I believe God always said entering marriage is such a serious matter because it's not about two people getting along, or not. It's about your commitment, and that commitment will be tested, but more importantly it affects the children permanently.
My father wasn't perfect, but he is what God gave and I am very appreciative of that matter. I am the man I am because of him. My father's wisdom echoes in my head today, but I always knew he would look out for us. He would fight for us, he would sacrifice for us and he spent his life for others.
I wished my father and I had more common interest and wished we spent more time now, but if there's one thing I knew it was this: he was there. A memory serves me well.
At K-Mart there was these cool soldier toys figurines that I desperately wanted. Our family was shopping and my father said no. Little did I know my father just didn't have any discretionary spending money like our federal government. I tried to 'earn' my father's favor my washing dishes during dinner - mind you I was about 8.
I didn't see the army figurines for quite some time, and then a few weeks later they showed up. I grabbed them like Jack Sparrow grabbing gold.
My dad came through.
And it meant so much to me. I recall that memory and I am sad that he is really gone. No more thanks to him.
Recently my sister told me he loved Korean beef. It just grabbed my dad's taste like it never before.
If I had one opportunity I'd fly him to Korea and go on a culinary feast, but my father would scold me for that spending. I do wish I could go back to California and find the best Korean beef bbq and blow several hundred dollars on my dad.
Looking back at my dad's sacrifices I think an entire bank account would be justifiable. My father died a quiet life. Without fanfare and he slipped into eternity without much notice.
Father, you were the not perfect. I saw your flaws, but in your life as your son I am so proud you are my father - this life you gave was the result of your life. I hope I live to make you proud.