23 Years and a Father’s Legacy
Yesterday, my boy turned 23. I find it hard to believe that my precious boy is no longer a child, but yet has emersed into adulthood. Yes, I know… that happened many years ago, but seeing this growth occur right before my eyes is… on one hand endearing, but yet on the other stabs my heart.
When I was coming up with ideas on how or what to write about this week – the week of my amazing son’s birthday and also leading into a day celebrating the men in my life – Father’s Day – I read a sentence that stuck.
“Father’s leave fingerprints on sons”
Over the past few years, I have watched – with such loving eyes – the bond and relationship between my husband and our son. I have watched with amazement as the years passed on…
- From the years of protecting him after he was born
- To having adventures in his younger years exploring the wonder of the world
- To some years of guidance or discipline while our son was searching for independence (although we were fortunate to have very few struggling moments)
- To eventually a friendship as they both equally learn from one another
I’ve watched our son grow into a man of integrity and kindness. He truly reflects the love, joy, fun, and adventure that his father embodies.
I’ve watched as my husband coaches our son through business and life decisions. How our son soaks it all in wanting to learn from such a great leader.
I’ve watched how much our son enjoys making others laugh just as his own dad can pull a crowd in with such fascinating stories and laughter.
These two men in my life – my birthday boy and my husband wearing the crown of glory for fatherhood – are worth celebrating – not only this week each and every year, but they are worthy of celebrating each day of every year.
Even though our son has only been in this world for 23 years, there is such a closeness and connection that seems to make that gap almost invisible. What began as a father guiding a young boy has slowly evolved into two grown men walking side by side – both learning, both laughing, both reflecting, both soaking in each other’s insight and both respecting each other as men.
The fingerprints his father left all those years ago can now be seen throughout the man our son has become.
And even though this week may be presenting all kinds of gifts – birthday and Father’s Day, the greatest gift is watching a son grow into the kind of man his father (and mother) is proud to call not only his son, but also a friend.
So, even though this is posted the day after a special birthday celebration – Happy Birthday my dear son. May you know you are loved and cherished daily, as well as know how incredibly proud you make me as a mom.
And a happy Father’s Day to my incredible husband – who makes being a father look so easy, who inspires not only myself, but both of our children (especially now that they are adults), and who also lives life full of love for his family.
Last, but not least… happy Father’s Day to my own dad – who I admire and love dearly all while still holding the anchor in my heart.
Three men. Three pieces of my heart. Three generations inspiring others.
All of which fills my heart full to the brim with love and admiration.
