When I'm with YOU

"Daddy, when I think about the times I feel most loved and accepted it is when I am with you."

This simple sentence penned by one of my daughters completely undid me this past Father's day. I couldn't help but cry because I was deeply touched, stunned and humbled.

Quickly I began searching my memory for the times we'd been together in the recent past. "What did I do? What did I say?"

One on one each of our children is a delight; each are fun, funny, thoughtful, curious...and loving. But, I had no idea that simple courtesies and common conversation was having such a profound impact. AND I wondered about the times I did and said things that made her feel anything but accepted and loved. "God help me to live more loving."

I've thought of myself as anything but loving at times. So, I was truly shocked to receive a spontaneous affirmation that my saga to learn to live loved by God and to live loving with others is happening. Not perfectly, and not all the time, but enough to have an effect.

She feels loved. What more could a father want for Father's Day, or any day?

Papa, please help me to lean into your love. When I'm with you is the time I feel most loved and accepted. Please, somehow, help your love to leak out of me that they might feel loved too.

Jeff