Go Beyond

Among my favorite family photos is an old black and white pic of my Dad’s family — one that was taken in front of a playhouse that my grandparents had built for their kids. My Dad is sitting on my grandfather’s lap in the photo. I love this particular photo because it reminds me that my Dad enjoyed a really good childhood. Dad was the beneficiary of loving parents and a stable and secure home, gifts that he and my Mom passed on to me and my siblings.

I also cherish an old photo of my Dad holding me in his arms. I have never doubted my Dad’s love for me. From the time I was a kid, my Dad has always called me “mijo” — a combination of the Spanish words for “my” and “son” or “mi hijo.” However, to those of us who speak Spanish, this is an affectionate term, a contraction that conveys more than the idea of “my son.” It more accurately conveys the idea of “my beloved son.” Mijo is a tender term of endearment. Dad still calls me his beloved son and I still love hearing him do so.

Of all of my Dad’s travel photos, my favorite is a photo of Dad sitting in a gondola on the canals of Venice. Dad was an avid photographer and took hundreds of slides and black and white prints. God would later use these pics to stir my curiosity about the nations. Dad’s travels opened his eyes and heart to the world, a gift that he unwittingly bestowed to me.

A few years ago Dad and I spent two weeks together on a road trip that took us from South Texas to Big Bend and on through New Mexico and Colorado. What an amazing trip that was. And what a treasure it was to spend so much time with my Dad. We later did a two-week road trip in Germany along with my brother-in-law. Again, what a blessing it was to spend time with my Dad.

Another of my favorite pics of Dad was taken at my son Jonathan’s wedding. Having Dad at the wedding was a blessing. He had a great time and was much better on the dance floor than me. I think it’s cool that Dad still enjoys engaging and having fun with family. That in itself is a gift for which we are all grateful.

But perhaps the pic that speaks the most to me is one taken at the cemetery where my beautiful Mom is buried. Dad and Mom were passionately in love — no doubt about that in our home. This was their greatest gift to me and my siblings and is what gave our home a rock-solid foundation. Ever since Mom unexpectedly passed away in 2009, Dad continues to go to the cemetery every morning to have his quiet time and to make sure Mom has fresh flowers on her grave. Amazing love.

So, on this Father’s day, I count myself one of the most fortunate people on the planet. I love my Dad and am grateful for his love, encouragement, laughter, prayers, and presence. Thank you Dad for giving me an amazing childhood and for loving Mom.