Hello friends,
This is a repeat of something I wrote back in 2009.
I was a different person then ... but the sentiment I felt remains the sam
e.
Sometimes flamboyant .. often enthusiastic... consistently principled. My dad rarely spoke of his Faith. Rather, that 'Preacher's Kid' lived it every day by example. He taught me to pray and made certain I accompanied he and my mother to church each Sunday ... even those mornings when I wanted nothing more than to stay in bed.
I'll won't forget a season where he insisted mother and I wear hats each Sunday morning.
My father's been gone almost 30 45 years now, but I still "talk" to him regularly.
Years ago, I tried explaining why I could no longer patronize that church in which I was baptized and later, confirmed. His church. The church of 3 generations of pastors who went before. Initially, I believed he would be cross ~ now, not so much. No matter the venue, he would be satisfied knowing that my Faith has strengthened. Because he loved me.
While attending Unity Clearwater a few years ago I came across this prayer. Perhaps it's not the author's intent, but missing my dad I was comforted by these words:
Even though I cannot be with you, even though I cannot see you or talk with you, I am as close to you as a thought. I am as near to you as the love I feel for you in my heart. Whenever I think of you, I bless you, and my love encircles you.
I do not worry about you. I know that God is watching over you, that God is your health, your strength, your source of supply, your happiness and your peace of mind.
Wherever you are, God is. Wherever I am, God is. God is watching over us while we are absent one from the other and making us to know that we are forever together in Spirit.
“The Lord watch between you and me, when we are absent one from the other.” (Gen. 31:49).
How touching. Good fathers are such a blessing. Beautiful tribute to yours!
ReplyDeleteYou really had a great dad! Mine always took us to church, but he and my mom didn't attend. They just dropped us off. At least I have that to be thankful for. Hope you all have a great Father's Day and enjoy summer ! Love, ma
ReplyDeleteMyra....Happy Father's Day in Heaven to your dad. This post touched my heart and in your words I could feel your love for you dad. We live, we grow, we change and through it all...Our dads love us while on our journey. Your dad would be so very proud of you and how much you are a blessing to others...
ReplyDeleteA very Happy Father's Day to your dad and to Tom. Such a lovely tribute.
ReplyDeleteOh Myra, I love that photo of your Dad. He looks so gallant in his hat, suit and jaunty stance.
ReplyDeleteHe reminds me of how my Dad always dressed too..Dad has been gone for 42 years and that just doesn't seem possible. I miss him and our many adventures and silly times together.
Thanks for sharing your Dad with us.
Sue
Lovely post. That is a lovely prayer.
ReplyDeleteI love those pictures!
ReplyDeleteA beautiful post, Myra (and I like the photos). You were very blessed having such a special father - and I understand the sentimentality.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, my father was the spawn of Satan. No lie. Jon
This post brought tears to my eyes, Myra. What a special father you had! Blessings!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this most wonderful tribute to your father. You are a special person and your parents are very proud of you.
ReplyDeleteYou are right to "talk" to your father. I believe strongly that the souls of our loved ones hear our prayers and intercede for us and for our protection.
God bless you always, Mevely; and your family.
Beautiful, Myra. My dad passed in 1989, the day after my December birthday. All these years later, I still miss him and talk about him, too. Hugs! xo
ReplyDeleteYou can sure tell you had a wonderful father - happy Father's Day to you.
ReplyDelete