Sunday, August 26, 2012

A Tribute to Dad


Because of my dad...

Because of my dad, I can stand still in a quiet meadow or a forest of trees and be utterly content in the beauty that surrounds me.

Because of my dad, I will forever laugh when boating across rough waters as I remember his tale of Mayma asking him to “miss those bumps, sonny.”

Because of my dad, I will always gauge the growth of corn and beans and hay as I pass by fields of them, whether I know who farms those fields or not.

Because of my dad, I will always harbor a fondness for safe cars—and regular oil changes. (Although mine needs it right now.)

Because of my dad, I will always offer guests in my house food and drink, and likely I’ll offer them more than once regardless of how they responded the first time I asked.

Because of my dad, I have a desire to own and ride another horse.

Because of my dad, I know how to drive a stick shift.

Because of my dad, I know the satisfaction that comes from a hard day’s work, and I’m grateful for that lesson.

Because of my dad, I hope to never know a stranger.

Because of my dad, I know the value of good, patient conversations; steady laughter; and a wink of the eye.

Because of my dad, I can appreciate ways of life (Swamp People, anyone?) that I will never live myself.

Because of my dad’s love for my mom and hers for him, I know what a solid, loving, lifetime marriage is.

Because of my dad’s love, I know what it means to be accepted and treasured for the individual I am.

Because of my dad, I know strength. I know love. I know laughter. I know friendship. I know generosity.

Because of my dad, I know what it means to live a life worth living.


Robert R. Flora was a soul on this Earth for almost eighty years.

To those of us who were blessed to walk alongside him, he will be a husband, a father, a grandfather, an uncle, and a friend for eternity.

Until we meet again…

I love you, Papa.
Sis

2 comments:

  1. I just happened to catch this at this moment... and it MADE this moment! Bless you Sharon, and your papa too. Thanks for reaffirming the beauty that just one relationship can provide! XOXOXOXO

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  2. I will forever grateful for the father he was to you and your brother, not to mention the husband he was to me. Thank you, Dear Daughter, for putting into words what so many feel and loved.

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