My earliest memories surrounding my father center around work and service. I don't remember a time when my dad was not busily engaged in something. I learned how to do yard work by watching him take meticulous care of our yard, and often a few of our neighbors. I saw the time and care he took in to making things just right. I can still see in my mind the exact edge he somehow managed to make on our grass. It wasn't until I tried it for the first time, with terrible results, that I understood how much time and patience it took. Our yard was always a matter of pride for him and me as so many would comment on how great it always looked.
Dad spent (and still spends) a lot of time at the church, whether by assignment or volunteer, making sure that things are in place and ready to go for meetings, funerals activities, etc... His commitment to serving others in that capacity thankfully rubbed off on me and I find such joy in serving in similar capacities.
I recall my Dad rising early in the morning to prepare himself for work. As a boy, this was such an example to me. I know he took providing for our family very seriously and I admired how hard he would work to give us not only the things we needed, but also the things we wanted. I can only imagine the sacrifices he made to make sure that we wanted for nothing.
We didn't do extravagant trips as a family but I do remember the many times we spent together, Todd and I in the back of the truck, traveling to Zions or Bryce Canyon, up to the Barnes' cabin or on amazing Sunday drives to the mountains. Riding motorcycles was his passion and I was lucky enough to be able to spend time with him exploring some remote parts of the world on the back of a Honda.
My dad has endured a lot of challenges that I can't even imagine. The loss of his father while he was serving a mission. The loss of his only daughter in an auto accident. My family and children are my treasures and to have those taken away prematurely would be so difficult. How blessed I am to have his example of enduring trials through faith.
Now as I prepare to send my oldest son off into the (missionary) world, I have a much better perspective of what an impact a father can have. I wonder, have I taught my children the lessons that my father taught me? Have I been the kind of Dad that they can be proud of, the way I am of my own father. Will they one day, when they have a little more life experience, look back and say to themselves "I am a better person because of my Dad?"
I am the person that I am, due in part to the influence of my dad. I celebrate every day as Father's Day as it has been one of the greatest blessings in my life to both have a loving father and try to emulate that same love for my own children. Love you Dad!
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