Two fathers, both consummate storytellers in their own rights. One says "draw a picture, tell a story" and in doing so, replaces fear with wonder in the minds of those to whom mathematics has always been a struggle. One stands at the pulpit with tales of humor and insight, depth and meaning. One sits around a campfire, hikes up a trail, lies in a sleeping bag — all the while weaving fanciful tales of knights and monsters, forest creatures and intrepid children. The words of both stay with me, shape me, guide me.
One is a doer, constantly carving, knitting, out in the garden, creating beauty with everything he does. One is a philosopher, a poet, spending his life building wonderful pictures of a God that even I can understand and embrace. Gentle and kind, each wise in his own way.
Very different, yet drawn together by a deeper understanding. Each one has found a true expression of God. Each one "gets it." Each one has been able to share what he's found with me, with his family, with all those around him in ways that will last far beyond a single life.
Everything I am and try to be, I have learned from watching and listening to these two amazing men. Childlike curiosity, a gentle grace, a resilient faith. I truly am a fortunate son.
...and very, very fortunate wife!
Posted by: Jeni at May 4, 2005 09:17 PMAnd, a proud mother-in-law. Will someone please go to Costco and buy me a case of Kleenex?
Posted by: Marilyn at May 4, 2005 09:56 PM...and send some Kleenex to me too while you're at it, please.
My congregation here in Maryland has been praying for Don regularly since this dance with cancer began. Trying to explain my relationship to Don has been a little strange though: "he's a friend" captures just part; "he's been a mentor in my ministry journey" captures another part; "he's my sister-in-law's dad" or "my brother's father-in-law" or "my nieces' other grandfather" all get to another part of the equation.
Lately, I just say, "Don's family."
Love,
Janet
Thank you, Ron. I can clearly see in my mind's eye these two men you call father. What a gift!
Posted by: Connie Lyon Newcomer at May 5, 2005 09:48 AMRon,
You've captured these two fathers and their gifts and influences perfectly--what a blessing they both are to us as well.
Thank you for these thoughts--and about that kleenex...
Marilyn
Wow! I believe I have started several entries with wow! Wow! and pass the kleenex.
Ron you are very fortunate and you are good at expressing yourself concerning two very special men in my life, men who "get it" We are all very blessed to have such angels and saints in our lives.
Donel, you have fed my soul with your wonderful sermons and Keith you have clothed my grandchildren with your knitting. What a rich legacy you both have in my life. Thank you.
K
Fortunate son....fortunate fathers....fortunate blog readers. Thank you, Ron.
Margie Kimberley
Posted by: Margie Kimberley at May 4, 2005 08:23 PM