It’s only when you grow up and step back from him―or leave him for your own home―it’s only
then that you can measure his greatness and fully appreciate it. – Margaret Truman
Happy Father’s Day!
Whether your kids are human or furry, enjoy your special day!
My dad passed away nine years ago. While our relationship was complicated at times, I always knew that he loved me, and I have lots of wonderful memories of him. His life was shaped to a great extent by his experiences during World War II in Germany, and as a result of experiencing so much loss at such a young age, he held those he loved close to him – at times, too close for a daughter who wanted to spread her wings and fly from the nest.
My dad was not a cat lover. He liked animals, but he never made a real connection with them. I think he was a little puzzled by my love of and obsession with cats. I often wish that he could have known how the love of a small cat can transform a life – maybe it would have made his early life experiences a little more bearable.
The Margaret Truman quote above struck a chord with me. I always knew that my dad loved me, even during our most tumultuous times, but I didn’t really appreciate all the gifts he gave me beyond his deep and unconditional love until I left home. One of the greatest gifts he gave me was probably the last time I visited him (the photo above shows us at a café near his home). He was already very ill at the time, and we both knew that most likely, we wouldn’t see each other again. I treasure the conversations we had during that last visit to this day. Nothing was left unsaid, and we parted with much love, and peace, in our hearts.
If you still have your father, tell him that you love him today. My dad had a long, sometimes difficult, but ultimately good life, and I miss his physical presence in my life. His spirit is never far from me.
Photo at top of post by Ani Carrington, Flickr Creative Commons
((((purrs))))
What a beautiful tribute to your dad! I’m sure he was and still is very proud of the wonderful person you are! I’m one of the lucky ones who still has my dad in my life but you have reminded me not to take it for granted! Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads out there who are with us physically and in spirit! ~ Paige
Very heartwarming post. Happy Father’s Day.
Thanks, Sue. Happy Father’s Day to you, too.
Ingrid,
That made me weepy. I lost my father about 3 years ago and then 2 months later, my mother. His illness was sudden and he never recovered. I Know that he is in a happy place and look forward to seeing him again.
Diana , Lucy and lil Rikki
What an awful lot of loss in a short time, Diana. My heart goes out to you.
Thank you Ingrid. It was rough.
Ingrid this was simply beautiful. I lost my father in 2001, so we lost them rather near each other. I miss my fathers physical presence every day but agree with you, his spirit is never very far.
xoxoxo
We’re both fortunate that we’re able to feel our fathers’ spirits with us, Caren. Not everyone can feel this.
Once again Ingrid, you have touched my heart.
Lovely remembrance of your dad!!
Thanks, Toni!
Such a beautiful remembrance of your dad, Ingrid. And the Margaret Truman quote couldn’t be more perfect. I know my dad knew how much I loved him….but I wish so much that he could know how much I’ve grown to admire him.
Fathers Day blessings to dads and their daughters.
xo, Glogirly
Thanks, Debbie. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Father’s Day blessings to you, too.