I don't know exactly why I felt the need or idea to write this but I did. For those of you who were looking for something more business oriented or some words of wisdom, this will not be what you're necessarily looking for. I wanted to reflect on my dad since it's Father's Day this weekend and this is my blog...

My dad died 6 years ago, March 26th. In some ways it seems a long time and in some ways only yesterday. There are days I miss him more than others. I notice more and more when I look in the mirror I see more and more of how I look like him (I have to confess we both were better looking when younger). As I did 6 years ago when I had the honor with my brother to speak at his funeral, I wanted to share some of those same words today. I think his life still speaks.

Stories- If it's true God 'created man because he loved stories', then God must have really loved my dad! Dad could tell one story right after the other. Stories were opportunities for dad to meet strangers. There wasn't anyone he was afraid to speak to.

Masculinity- A boy learns who he is and what he's about from his father, or in the company of men. Masculinity is something bestowed. For my brother and I, dad would be the first man in our lives, and forever the most important man.

Provider-My dad's dad died when he was a teenager which meant he then became responsible for assisting his mother in raising 3 younger brothers. He never stopped providing. Our dad worked long hours. There would literally be days when we wouldn't see him because he would be up and gone before we got up and come home after we went to bed. Why? Because he loved us and knew he had 5 children and a wife to provide for.

Integrity- Dad always said and believed a man was as good as his word. His name and handshake were more reliable than any legal document. My dad built many houses in the surrounding area and he took pride in each one. It was his work, his hands, his sweat, and his name-Hayden Beasley who was building it.

Humor- Our dad could laugh. He had an infectious laugh that made you laugh. And he loved to make others laugh. He loved to tell jokes.

Finally, one of my dad's favorite phrases was "roll'em up". When the day would end at work, roll'em up meant it was time to go home so roll up the electrical cords. On the Tuesday when dad died God said, 'roll'em up'. As we his kids and friends were saying 'see you later' at his funeral, my mom, his mom and dad (who he hadn't seen in 66 years) were saying, "Here he comes". They were expecting him.

As I said then, I repeat today, "There will never be another person like our dad. Ever. We love you."

rb

Question: As a dad, who is being touched by your life? What words do you need to express to your dad?