The tip of my grandpa's finger was gone. He lost it, I think, in a lawn mower. A tall, handsome, imposing man, he was missing other things too. The ability to convey his emotions, for one. He was the most stoic, least communicative guy I've ever known.
Though I loved him, I don't know how my grandma stood him.
My dad, thankfully, has lived down his father's legacy. And I think he would not like my telling you this, but he, my dad, becomes more effusive with each passing year. He leaves absolutely no room for doubt that he loves my sister and I, loves and values time with our kids too.
He's one of those people everyone likes. Fair. Kind. Confident. Funny. Humble.
And, I get to be his oldest daughter. Me.
I marvel at my good luck.
Beautiful. Happy Father's Day!
Posted by: Susan (Trout Towers) | June 21, 2009 at 03:49 AM
Absolutely true. What a gift!
Posted by: M | June 21, 2009 at 04:03 AM
Thank you, dear Angie. You are a very sweet daughter, and everything you've said is totally true, except for the humble part. That's an act.
When the time comes, you can do my eulogy, OK?
Love,
Dad
Posted by: T | June 21, 2009 at 06:36 AM
Lucky you! Sweet comment from your father. :-)
Posted by: Chris | June 21, 2009 at 07:23 AM
Your dad sounds amazing, esp. since he did not have that loving openness modeled for him by his own father.
Posted by: kcinnova | June 22, 2009 at 02:47 AM
That is so sweet, it brought tears to my eyes. My dad has overcome similar emotional legacy in his family--it's taken many years but there is no doubt of his passion for his family now.
Posted by: Leslie | June 22, 2009 at 04:24 PM
The same could be said of my George, too. Lucky, aren't we?
Posted by: Kasey | June 23, 2009 at 09:52 AM