Friday, August 10, 2012
It is impossible for me to convey, in a few words, the depth and range of my sentiments for my dear father who has just passed into the next world. But let me say this: when I went through a period of teenage resentment, he never once returned my resentment with anything but love; when I disagreed with him, he never relented whatsoever in showing his love; and when I chose career directions that did not correspond with his hopes, he supported and loved me all the same.
Mark Twain wrote, "When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much he had learned in 7 years." To which I would add: when I got to be 30, I realized that my father was in so many ways a truly great man, whose example I could only hope to dimly emulate; and even now, I continue to learn of achievements and charitable activities which prompt me to admire him all the more.
What an honor it is to have witnessed his dedication to his family, to abused and neglected children, and to so many worthy charitable causes; his incredible work ethic; his integrity; his genuine good-will and affability; his sense of humor; and his humility. He certainly proved true these words of the poet George Herbert: "A father is more than a hundred schoolmasters."
Dad, may God grant you His infinite Mercy and Peace, and may we someday contemplate Him together for all eternity.
