My father was the best man I ever knew. He combined strength and courage with gentleness, tenderness, and great unselfishness. I would have loved to display a photo of him but he passed long before I entered the digital age and without necessary technology with me, his image of playing the piano will do for now.
He would not tolerate in us children selfishness, cruelty, idleness, cowardice, or untruthfulness. With great love and patience and the most understanding and consideration, he combined insistence on discipline. He never physically punished me but once, but he was the only man of whom I was ever really afraid. I do not mean that it was a wrong fear, for he was entirely just, and we children adored him.
I never attempted to escape from the shadow of my father. I never tried to establish an independent reputation for myself. I always felt that I was kind of accountable to a family trust. I have a special sense of that great legacy, being the son of the finest man, the happiest man, I have ever known. He showed me what it means to live for right. He was a living illustration of the American ideal and spirit. All that I have ever done has been little more than an attempt to live up to an honor that legacy. My Father’s Day wish for all of you out there is that you can have but a slice of what I have been exposed to due to my father.
Larry, I had the privilege of meeting your father on a few occasions, and he was a kind and gentle man. A warm smile and handshake that made you feel welcome, and yet another taken to soon from our lives. I believe our Fathers, had they more time, would have become great friends. Happy Father’s Day to you.
That sounds like my Dad! He remains the greatest man I have ever known. The only man on par with him was my Mother’s Father, my Grandpa.
The criminals I babysit here in jail did not often have such examples and high standards. In that they have a poverty beyond any of a material nature. By that same measure I have a wealth beyond counting.
Happy Father’s Day!