Daddy’s Shoulders

To my children,

If you notice that dad is beginning to walk a little less upright with a bit of a rounded shoulder, know this, his shoulders have carried a great life. His shoulders held the weight of a great deal of joy, sorrow and responsibility. He has paced the floor taking turns trying to pacify babies. He has walked in the door, reliably each night, for supper with a smile on his face to greet the happy toddlers who were anxiously awaiting big hugs and a toss in the air. He has learned the terms for ballet dance steps, Cabbage Patch dollies names and who the Backstreet Boys were. He has driven through snow storms to get to hockey games. Stood in wind and rain to do his best at coaching baseball. He has sat in the passenger seat of a vehicle with great anxiety teaching his people how to drive. He has proudly watched successes and quietly shared in disappointments. He has held firm in his beliefs of right and wrong and his commitment to raising honorable people. He has gone to work each and everyday for the sole purpose of providing his family with the best life he could. He forwent his own interests to accommodate the wants and wishes of the people he loved. He was the calming voice of reason during the ups, downs and every time things went sideways. His shoulders were dependable, consistent, while providing us with the stability a family needs. He provided a safe home where you were encouraged to speak your mind. We needed to be honest and open with each other and discussion on any topic encouraged. He has wanted nothing more than for you to be happy in your life. On this Father’s Day please know he is so very proud of you both. He continues to believe in your abilities and finds great joy in watching your lives unfold. Oh, what those shoulders have carried. He carried it all for you and he would do it all again. I ask you to be proud of him.

Love Mom.