Monday, June 22, 2015

Dear Dad:


Thank you.

Those are two of probably the most overlooked and under-used words in the human vocabulary.
Right up there with "Brussels Sprouts"… (except those words can stay overlooked… dem veggies are gross).
BUT in an attempt to increase awareness regarding the neglect of these two words of appreciation,
I shall say them again.

Thank you.

"For what?" Well, for a lot of things. Thank you for the money, the clothes, and the permission to drive the car. Thank you for my cell phone, paying for my gas, and taking me out to eat. Oh, and thank you for paying for my college tuition, books, and a place to live while at school. The monetary contributions are VERY much appreciated…so yep, thanks for that.

but, don't worry, I promise I'm grateful for more than just the financial perks. (and those perks are preeeety sweet)

"Life lessons from Dad" have come in various forms… late night talks, early morning breakfast chats, before or after too many sporting events. It's always been about "the principle", and you never let a potential learning opportunity go to waste. Now that I'm older and out of the house (well, not currently… but ya know) these "life lessons" and the conversations in which we had them are some of my most cherished moments.

Me and you are a lot alike. I mean, like personality traits n stuff.
We enjoy the same hobbies, play the same sports, like the same food…
shoot, we even order the same meals at restaurants.
We brush our teeth the same, think the same, probably even look the same similar.
I love Momma with all my heart, (srsly mom, youda best!!) but ever since I was little I have always been a
daddy's girl.

Basically… 
I love you a lot. 
Not just because we are a lot alike (that IS a plus too, cuz I think I'm pretty cool)but because of SO much more. 

I love you because of who you are
And because of who you are, I love you because of what you have taught me
You are a provider, a mentor, a role model. 
You are a fighter for all things good, and will stop at nothing to ensure the safety of your family, both physically and spiritually. Through your example, I've learned to be gracious and respectful, stand up for what I believe, and laugh at my own jokes. I've learned that dedication and drive for a worthy goal will help you accomplish it, no matter the sacrifice it may take to get there. I've also learned that above all else, serving other people is the most important thing we can do to enrich our human experience.

So, to close… I will end where I began.
Dear Dad:
Thank you.
Thank you for…

Protecting our family.
Encouraging me to be brave.
Showing what it means to have integrity
Allowing me to struggle, even if it sometimes hurt you to watch.
Laughing at my jokes.
Saying you are proud of me.


Whether you're working in the yard, singing in church, or making omelets for breakfast… In everything you do, I am grateful for a Dad like YOU.


Sincerely,
you're biggest fan.


LET'S HAVE SOME FUN THIS WEEK!!!
(Simmons Family Reunion Coming Soon… #simmonshomeforsummer)