My Dad is a very special person, one who is unique and not like any other. He is someone that everyone looks up to even those who do not know him. He is warm, friendly, always smiling and has a pleasant and encouraging word for all. Many respect and admire him not only for his professional skills, but for his personality and thoughtfulness toward everyone. For him, each and every person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and all are equal no matter what their status, nationality or way of life.
Dad is more than six feet in height and slim in build. He has dark hair with just a hint of grey at the temples which gives him a distinguished look. He is extremely handsome and has always been very diligent toward his health and appearance. His eyes are a deep sea green and crinkle at the corners which he always refers to as laugh lines. When he laughs, which is often, is contagious and never fails to bring a smile or laugh from those around him. He has a deep voice which is comforting and soothing while at the same time oozes self confidence and commands respect for his authority.
Dad and I have always been very close and share a warm, loving relationship with each other. We have very similar personalities and interests, yet, there is a deep respect for one another opinion when they differ. My dad's love of nature, wildlife, hiking and camping has been deeply instilled in me and is something which I love even now. I can remember vividly, the weekend camping trips with just me, dad and sometimes my brother. We used to hike for hours through the wilderness before coming across the perfect place to pitch our tents. It was during these weekend, I learned how to survive and rely solely upon nature for food and comforts. These weekends also taught me to respect the elements of nature and to appreciate the beauty, serenity and provisions that have been provided to us by God.
My dad is the best in the world as far as my opinion goes. He has always been there for me no matter what. As his daughter, I come first, he always ensured that any time needed for me was available. He attended my plays at schools, recitals, competitions, drove me to friends or wherever I needed to be and never complained. Of course, he did miss some due to emergencies, but, that is understandable and he always managed to let me know how proud he was of me, even when he was not there. I can remember we use to and still do spend hours talking about everything and anything. When I had problems, it was my dad I went to. He always understood and seemed to have the answers and knew exactly what to say. Dad has a kind and gentle nature, never raising his voice even when he is upset. He has a knack for changing your mind about decisions he knows are wrong without you realizing, the influence he has had on you. He is able to point out your errors without you feeling as if you were wrong or made a mistake.
I sometimes wonder, does my dad have any faults. Well, in all honesty, I'm sure he must except I don't see them, for to me he is perfect. The only fault I can think of which might be of concern to others but not to me is how he spoils me. As far back as I can recall, I cannot remember even once my father disciplining me, that was always left to my mom. Dad has never been able to see my faults, to him I have and still am his perfect sweet little angel. If, I did something I knew was wrong, well, I didn't have to make excuses, daddy always found them for them, it was never my fault. So, yes, many may think he is wrong in treating me this way, but, I love him all the more for it.
Daddy was and still is very protective me, in fact, I have to admit he is over protective. I know the reason for this is because he cares and loves me. He is compassionate and feels my pain when I am hurt or sick. One incident in particular I remember is when I was in the hospital for a couple of months. I can still him sitting beside my bed at times, head in his hands, praying as the tears fell from his eyes. He didn't know that I saw this happening as he thought I was sleeping. While I was awake, he always remained cheerful and encouraging not allowing me to see the pain or despair hiding in his eyes.
Throughout the years, he has taught me many lessons. These lessons have always been with me and I have tried my best to follow them and teach them to others. I guess some of the most important ones are:
always do your best, if you are going to do something give it your all, if you are only going to put half the effort into it, why do it at all
remember that all people are equal no matter what their beliefs, sex, status or race
do not pass judgement on others, everyone makes mistakes
remember that everyone has their good and bad points, but always look for the good in people for their good points will always far outweigh the bad
treat others as you would want them to treat you
respect from others must be earned, you also have to respect others and
yourself before it can be earned
help those less fortunate than yourself for you never know when you may
be in need of help
remember even when things seem helpless, smile, for the brightness of a smile reminds you that everything will work out and things don't appear quite so grave
put your faith and trust in the Lord for he is always there for you.
As you can see, my dad has always been a great source of inspiration and encouragement to me. His love, patience, understanding and wisdom have helped to form the person I am today. Due to his examples and values I have learned not to be afraid to face life, to stand up for my beliefs and make myself heard. It is because of him, I can love and share my life with others without being afraid of rejection. Now, you know why I have the most wonderful father in this world we live in.
Daddy, I just want to say how much I love and appreciate everything you have done for me. I want to thank you for allowing me to learn from my mistakes, yet, always being there to help when I needed it. Thanks Dad, you're the best.
Love you
always