Honoring my Papa

The past few days leading up to Father’s Day, I’ve had a lot on my mind. It all started with a DJ on the radio who was talking about the holiday, and she made some very good points. It got me to thinking.

Mother’s day is all flowers, and cards, and chocolates, and Proverbs 31. “We love you, mom…thanks for all you do.” What happens when we get to father’s day? “Oh, gee, thanks Dad, we love you too. Here’s a tie.” How is that fair? How is that fair at all?

I understand that many people have had bad experiences with their fathers. Some never had a father. Some had an awful father, one who was emotionally, verbally, even physically abusive. I’m so very, very sorry. Maybe this is why the father’s day cards I read included such gems as “May the joy you experience on Father’s Day last longer than the aroma of one of your farts.” Or “I’ll always be your little girl….if you’ll always buy me stuff.” They all seemed to be about dads who only fart, drink beer, and lay on the couch like a bum; that or they were so sappy and long that they really meant nothing.

That doesn’t fit my daddy, my papa.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? He decided to be different. In all my years of growing up, he never missed a ballet recital, play, or important event. He frequently took me on dates for ice cream, pie, coffee, or the occasional concert/event…just because he loved me.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? He has stayed with my mom and helped her fight through 25 years of health problems. From cancer, to barrenness, to diabetes, he has been her rock, while at the same time leading her straight to Jesus. When lesser men would have left, he has stood strong. They have been victorious over so much, together.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? He has taught me how a woman deserves to be treated. He opens the car door for my mom, no matter if they’re at the grocery store or in the church parking lot or at a fancy restaurant. And guess what? He even does the same for me.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? He’s the kind of man who has purposed never to raise his voice in anger, never to speak hurtful words in the heat of a moment, never to make promises he may not keep. In the almost 21 years I have been alive, I have never seen my parents have a fight. And I cannot think of a single time he hurt my feelings because he was upset.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? He serves joyfully behind the scenes, never asking for recognition or gratitude.  He doesn’t ask for attention, but chooses to be Christ-like instead. He is a man who rejoices in secret giving, blessing, loving of others.

Do you want to know what kind of man he is? A righteous one. “Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man? The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.” (Proverbs 20:6-7)

Do you want to know what kind of man he is?

The kind I’m so proud to call my papa.