Father’s Day and some love. Father’s Day has special meaning. My father passed some years ago, but I think of him often as I head into new work and personal adventures. I will never be the man my father was, but I watched and learned from his quiet strong presence and actions. I think he would be proud of the work I am trying to complete. Also, he would be encouraged that I have found a strong able female partner who is my love and my equal. He always had my mother by him to provide strength and help. My mom was his equal at home and in business. They were fine role models for me both in my youth and as an adult.
Dad loved to take me salmon fishing off the coast of Washington when I was young. It was when my father was most at peace fishing in Westport. That is where we spread his ashes after he passed. Now my mom is gone too. They are probably in Heaven (or wherever good souls go). They are watching me and still guiding me as I proceed on my own journey. I remember my father’s dad who loved his trout fishing in Colorado. Both of these good men were hard workers who supported their families with a quiet but strong hand. Grandpa a Union business agent during the Great Depression just making it as his son (my dad) fought in World War II as a Marine in the South Pacific. My father was hit by an explosion, but made it home. He was the first in our family to graduate from college under the GI Bill. Dad worked hard in business, and set an example for me there too.
I come from tough stock, as they might have said. My mom’s side was tough too, being deep sea salvage divers. I’m probably the weak link in the chain, but I’m still trying to make them proud.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads doing their best.
