A Father's Day...

On his brithday I would like to describe some of the things that characterize my Dad:

1. My Dad is one of the hardest workers I know. Dad was raised on a farm, and as such seems to have learned the principle that hardwork is part of the happiness equation. From an early age this impressed me and I recognized that Dad loved being busy. He never hesitated at doing something that needed to be done, particularly when it involved helping others.

2. My Dad can and will relate to about anyone on some level. He is your freind until you prove him otherwise..and even then its hard. I always felt that my brothers-in-law got off easy with him. My sister's could have brought home someone with mutliple piercings and a mohawk and though Dad would have been concerned and maybe disgusted, he could have genuinely conversed with them, "now tell me about this tattoo". He has a disarming demeanor.

3. My Dad loves to have fun. I read in a family history about how Dad's family would sing and play games on their road trips. I was moved because it impressed on me that all those years he did the same with us were an extension of years of family tradition. My Dad could always come up with a game to play, and we sang often. My Dad can also beat me at any sport (although perhaps maybe I could finally beat him...now that he is in his SIXTIES). He played basketball with me and my freinds in highschool and you always wanted Dad on your team. My Dad never had to be talked into participating in any adventure we conjured.

4. My Dad has six kids who are different in many ways. My parents stood back a little and observed how their kids took shape and supported that in every way. A poignant example of this is my first year of little league wrestling. My Dad took state in wrestling and the Callister's had a wrestling dynasty of sorts. I know it would have thrilled my Dad to see me wrestle. But I hated it! I never heard a word about not pursuing that. And even when I pretty much gave up on organized sports at the end of junior high, my Dad just turned up his support of my enthusiasm for the outdoors and music. He just wanted to support me in the good things I wanted to do with my life. This has been the case with all of his children.

5. My Dad is a leader. Dad has led our family through good and bad times. He has always made it clear to me that there is a source of answers, of resources, and a great example of how to live life, and most imortantly, its there when we need it. He has been an anchor. The optimism I feel in my life is because of the preparedness, faith and hard work of my parents.

Love ya Dad. You set a high bar, and I hope I can be the father, husband, leader and freind you have been.

Happy Birthday

Jake