06/16/2024
Repost from
•
Father’s Day is Not Always An Easy Day
I know some of you have lost your fathers. Or, the memories you hold of your dad are not pleasant - in fact they may be very painful. I was born without a dad - my father died two weeks before I was born. My mom remarried when I was two. I never called him my stepdad, only Dad. I certainly knew moments of tenderness from him, and don’t doubt he loved me, but his compass was alcohol and it drove much of my childhood. My younger brothers had a more difficult path than I ... it wasn’t a sweet childhood. My dad died sober - having given up drinking a few years before he died of cancer. He was as proud of this accomplishment as we all were. It was monumental.
I’ve had Christians remind me that at least I have a Parent in Heaven who loves me and is perfect. I get that. But, it doesn’t replace the longing we all have for an earthly parent who is capable of loving us well. As an adult orphan, there is still a pang I feel in my chest about Father’s Day. In contrast to this hollow feeling, I have had the immense joy of watching my husband become a father, build a life for our sons and model what the love of a dad should look like. For that redemption, I’m grateful and I love celebrating him.
Maybe for you this week is one of mixed emotions. Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a father and that seems like an impossible dream. Or you’re grieving the loss of your dad, or are hoping for reconciliation with your dad. Or you’re a dad who has suffered loss. Or maybe you’re a dad filled with regrets. I’m guessing there are many reading this who understand. I do. You are not alone.