For those like me who have lost their fathers, Father’s Day weekend can be difficult. On Father’s day, I normally focus on celebrating being a dad and a grandfather, which are the most cherished labels that describe who I am. I also like to put the spotlight on God, who is my heavenly Father. He is “a father to the fatherless” (Ps. 68:5). He is the one “who makes the orphan a son or daughter.” (From the song, “This is Amazing Grace” by Phil Wickham.)

In early September 2000, I had the chance to spend a week with my Dad, as he was about to have surgery to remove part of his lung. While he was in the hospital, I had some time to myself. I thought about what I was thankful for. I made a list on his computer and wrote him a short note. (See below.) Both he and I are able to express ourselves so much better in writing than verbally. I recall giving it to him. I do not think we ever discussed it, but this was what I wanted him to know. (Note: I was really glad I did this, because this was our last visit. He passed away in October 2001.)

Things About You That I Am Thankful For

1. 1. You married my mother and stayed with her over 20 years.
   2. You put your first name as my middle name.
   3. You gave up your dreams of college to get a decent job, and always worked hard so you could take care of your young family.
   4. You gave me two sisters and a brother who have enriched my life even though four kids must have been a handful.
   5. You played baseball with me.
   6. You took your family to church.
   7. You took me with you to help you pick up old people’s newspapers as a church fundraiser.
   8. You helped me build things like stilts, a chameleon cage, science projects, and electronic kits.
   9. You loved your family and demonstrated that love by giving us things we needed and wanted.
   10. You were interested and involved in my schoolwork, band concerts, swim meets, Boy Scouts, and friends.
   11. You made a point to teach me about things you were interested in, things I liked, and what I would need to know to be successful in life.
   12. You let me make a lot of decisions as I got older, both good and bad, which taught me values like responsibility and independence.
   13. You had me keep track of my mileage when I borrowed your car so I could pay for my gas.
   14. You took us to visit fun, interesting, and historical places like Chicago, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Paris, and Rome, and went along as an adult leader on that unforgettable Boy Scout High Adventure canoe trip in Minnesota and Canada.
   15. You told me you were proud of me when I did something well.
   16. You bought me a saxophone so I could pursue my interest in music, which inevitably got me to the CSU Marching Band field to meet the girl who is now my wife.
   17. You let me pick where I wanted to go to college and sacrificially paid out of state tuition for four years so that I could get a degree.
   18. You visited my family wherever we’ve lived around the country and overseas.
   19. You helped us out financially a few times when we were in a bind.
   20. You have been very generous with my family during holidays, birthdays, and when we’ve come to visit.

In my 42 years of life, you’ve set an example of diligence, dedication, and determination. You have left this world a better place than when you found it. I’m proud to be your son. I love you, Dad!

My father was far from perfect, but he was my dad. I am thankful for all that he gave me.

Russell E. Gehrlein holds a B.S from Colorado State University and an M.A. from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. A retired Master Sergeant, he continues to serve the U.S. Army in a civilian capacity. He and his wife of 43 years live in Missouri and enjoy spending time with their grandchildren. To read more of his work please visit Reflections on Theological Topics of Interest.

Image by DeepAi