A Heartwarming Father's Day Story
My son & I both lost our fathers within 2 months of each other. Josh's Dad died of cirrhosis of the liver in Nov. '95. Josh was 15. His Dad was only 39.
My Dad had lived a long life & was 87 (I think) in January '96 when he passed away. He was in a convalescent home & we knew he wouldn't be around too long. But it was still a shock when it happened. Fortunately we had about 12 hours "warning" from the nursing staff & I had a chance to get there and say goodbye before he left.
I tell you this as an explanation of why we haven't celebrated Father's Day for about 14 years. It's just something we sort of ignore when it comes around. But the commercials & newspaper ads don't let you "just skip it". You're inundated with messages for almost a full month before the big day arrives. So I can't help but be a little melancholy at this time of year.
Today I came across an article that just really warmed my heart. THIS is what being a Dad really means. THIS selfless act reminds me that there really are some good guys out there, who step up to the plate regardless of biology or any other reason that some Dads use to bail out on their responsibilities. I hope this touches you as much as it did me. And if you have a Dad or "father equivalent" you will be celebrating with this Sunday, remember: no matter how difficult your relationship may be (as mine was), he's still here & he won't be forever. Try to find a way to love him in spite of his flaws (you have some too!) Years from now you'll be glad you did. :-)Here you go: (CNN doesn't seem to let you copy/paste)
Comments
That was a truly awesome story. I am a little verklempt... My own marriage, I became Father to children whom, the oldest of which is eight months younger than I. Yet, each of them, throughout the years has told me that I was more of a Father to them than their real Fathers ever were.
Thanks for sharing this. I hope that there are more people like him out there who know that doing the right thing isn't always easy, but it needs to be done regardless., especially where children are involved.