Happy 90th, Dad!

During this Memorial Day weekend, my dad, a WWII veteran, celebrates his 90th birthday. My dad and his four brothers all served in World War II and they are all still alive today. The oldest is 92.

When I was a kid, I thought my dad knew everything. I remember when he used to come tell me goodnight after I had snuggled into bed. Before he got to my room, I would think up at least one question to ask him because I knew that would keep him with me longer. I asked questions about how we see color, about lightening, and about the universe. More than having an interest in the answers, I wanted my dad to spend time with me. I'm sure I asked "Why?" or "How?" at least ten times just to keep him sitting on the side of my bed.

I don't remember at what point my dad quit knowing everything. He was always the one I would call when something needed fixing - I knew that, no matter what, he was the best at such things. But when it came to the big questions of life, for the longest time, I got the idea that somehow I surpassed him in wisdom.

Now all of my dad's "fix-it" skills and knowledge are stored away somewhere where no one can find them. Gone are all of the smart and wise answers he used to give me as he sat in the dark on the side of my bed. But now, more than ever, I realize that my dad is the very best dad a woman like me could have. Through his beautiful example, I am learning about life lived in pure kindness, effortless patience, and endless gratitude. How lucky am I to be able to learn from the best of 'em?

Happy Birthday, sweet Dad!