Happy Birthday, Dad!

Happy Birthday, to my Dad, Joe, today!!! I am having a brain fart at this percise moment and honest to goodness cannot remember how old he is turning today....wow, I really should know that. Anyway, I am so glad my dad was born, not because our path together as father and daughter has always been easy; but rather, because, my dad has been my greatest teacher of forgiveness and redemption. My dad has taught me that people can love from you from quite afar--physically and emotionally. My dad has taught me that there is always love in someone's heart, even if it isn't always shown the way you think it should be. That goes both ways between him and I, just for the record. My dad has taught me that you cannot move forward until you acknowledge the past and seek forgiveness, and give forgiveness. Because it is such a gift. My dad has taught me that the bonds of blood and family are forever, even when it is difficult. My dad has taught me that sometimes, a person's absence in your life, can be just as big of a blessing in your life as their presence. My dad has taught me to be grateful for what I don't have, and don't want, instead of what I don't have and do want. That's huge! My dad has taught me that being a big sister is a lot like being a parent--except it's not being a parent in all actuality. My dad has taught me that civility and even friendliness, through hard times pays off! My dad has taught me that sometimes, having a screaming match, is the best thing for you, and the person you're screaming with! My dad has taught me that acknowledging your faults, and downfalls, is as equally important as acknowledging your atributes. My dad has taught me that when you have a God given gift, you should let it shine, and be an instrument of Him, and His love and His glory! My dad has taught me that one moment, when it's least expected, can change everything. My dad has taught me to keep holding onto my own marriage, even when times get tough. My dad has taught me that it takes a really big person to step aside and give credit where credit is due. And most of all, my dad has taught me that it's okay to forgive someone and then embrace them for who they really are! This all goes both ways, I just want to clarify that. My dad and I, today, have the most wonderful relationship and I thank God for it every single day! I am proud to be his daughter and though we'll always have our differences (what parent and child don't, though?), I am honestly 110% grateful that he was born, that I was born to him and my mom, and that he has played such a pivotal (if not so traditional) role in my life! I love you so much, Dad, thanks for everything you have taught me, given me, and shown me--through word, example and love! I truly hope you have the best birthday ever with many, many more to come! It's an honor to be your daughter, and I am celebrating with you today, if only in spirit!

Thank you, Lord, for my earthly father, who has taught me so much! Happy Birthday, Dad!

In Light N' Love,
-Sarah Liz :)