Daddy's Teachings -- A Father's Day Tribute

by Angie Ledbetter

In order to follow the "honor thy mother and father" commandment, we should be on the lookout for ways to make them feel special. What do you have in mind for the special men in your life this Father's Day?

Words of Wisdom

"A wise son heeds his father's instruction..." Proverbs 13:1 I wish I'd always believed in the truth of that passage. But now that I'm middle aged, I couldn't agree with it more.

Many people in many ways have blessed me throughout my life, but none as much as my parents. My Dad has always been there for his children, friends, coworkers, and anyone in need of his many talents. But that is not what makes him unique.

What lifts him above the crowd is his humility and his ability to jump into a situation and do what needs to be done. It's an automatic reaction on his part -- like breathing is to the rest of us. And my simple words of platitude will always be insufficient in describing and thanking him.

Daddy's Many Lessons

Daddy made sure we had all of the things we needed, but not necessarily the things we wanted, so that we didn't become spoiled adults.

He taught us to be self-reliant members in good standing within our church and community.

He taught us fairness by handing down punishment and praise in equal measure.

He taught us love and selflessness through many acts of personal sacrifice, by spending time with us, and by never failing to show that he was proud of us.

We were taught strength by his being strong.

We knew we could count on him at all times. He showed us consistency by never wavering under any type of influence or pressure from what he knew to be good and right.

He taught us faith by living the Gospel daily.

Dad taught forgiveness by forgiving us daily and by never holding a grudge against anyone.

We learned honor by witnessing his honorable behavior, and character by the same method.

He also taught us patriotism and the definition of "gumption" by modeling a strong worth ethic.

Daddy taught us by living these examples and by following the Golden Rule -- not by lecturing or via pop-psych experimentation.

Getting the Job Done

Outside the home, Daddy made sure we were involved in good, clean, healthy activities -- many of which he was himself a volunteer or participant in, such as scouting, sports, and religious education.

He is a leader of men. He is firm, but fair. He does whatever it takes to get the job done. If that means getting up at 3:00 a.m. to deliver milk so that he could attend college during the day and work other odd jobs to support a wife and four children, so be it.

Before I make him sound like a drill sergeant, I'll add that Daddy has his softer side that shows itself at unexpected moments. How many Dads would get down on the floor and play jacks with their kids? All of these things, and more, he still is to his four children and many grandchildren.

Oak and Acorn

I can only hope to infuse my own children with some of these characteristics. Daddy's shoes are some big ones to fill, but they are also one-size-fits-all because he'd never expect to be anyone's role model. This Father's Day, I will take a few minutes to write down my thoughts about the precious gifts he's imparted to me, and hopefully he'll realize how much he means to me.

I will also get him a brand new set of jacks.

Life Applications:

What is your definition of a father?
How do you show appreciation for the male figures who contributed to your life and spiritual growth?
Which of your father's (or role model's) characteristics do you hope to pass on to your children?

Copyright 2003 by Angie Ledbetter
All rights reserved.