Father's Day

As I watched my boys with their Dad on Sunday, Father’s Day, I realized once again how important fathers are to their children.  No matter what our age is and whether or not they are still with us, a father’s influence remains throughout our lives.  Even if, like mine, your Dad has been gone a long time, they are never far from our thoughts.  There are often occasions when something happens which I know Dad would have enjoyed hearing about and I think of him in that moment.   I often miss that father’s steady hand, strong love and advice – yes, even unsolicited advice.

            I note that many of my Facebook friends have uploaded pictures of their dad in honour of Father’s Day.  Many daughters have written something about their dad in their status.  There is a special bond between dads and daughters.  You may have your own children and a husband, yet Father’s Day is a little lonely without your own Dad to share it with.  I think part of the reason for that special bond is because to a father, their daughter is always “their little girl”.  No one else loves you in that way.  Sometimes, even if you are all grown up and have your own family, it is nice to just be a little girl and enjoy the love that comes with it.   I think the most poignant symbol of that special love is when a father dances with his daughter as her wedding.  She is a woman, but she is still his little girl.  

            I don’t think I realized how important each Father’s Day was when Dad and I shared his special day.  At the time, I just assumed he would always be here on Father’s Day and I never really thought about that day without a dad.   From making gifts as a child to purchasing gifts as an adult, the years flew by.  Life, it seems, often gets in the way.  It’s good there are birthdays and Father’s Day which cause you to take time to sit back and appreciate the people in your life.  It is important that we acknowledge those people and spend time with them.  Those special celebrations with special people create the memories that comfort you when things change.

            If you still have your Dad, I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Father’s Day with him.  If he is no longer here, I hope your memories of him warmed the day and brought a smile to your face.  Enjoying Father's Day with your dad . . . it's a good thing!