A Father's Joy

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up with the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

I recently wrote this letter to my daughter on the occasion of her eighth grade graduation. She received it at her class retreat with other beautiful letters from her mom, grandparents, aunts and special friends. I asked her permission to share it with our CatholicMom family hoping to inspire other fathers to prayerfully reflect on the gift of our children that they would lovingly affirm them as beautiful sons and daughters of a most amazing God!

My Dearest Daughter,

I Love You…

You are a most precious and extraordinary young woman.

You are a well spring of love, joy, laughter, warmth, comfort and inspiration to everyone in your life.

You are growing as a leader and with genuine leadership will always come much responsibility. Always strive to set the example by exceeding the standards. Observe and listen to others so that you would quietly learn from the success and failures of those around you and those who have walked ahead of you.

You are a child of God.

“You see, comparisons to others will never bear fruit. You are unique.” [1]

Continue to work hard and live well - in grace - without compromise of who you are for what you can gain or achieve in the eyes of this world. Continue to grow in love with God, our Heavenly Mother and your family. We can never love too much. Continue to be a loyal, honest, trustworthy and caring person that nurtures, supports and affirms those who share in your life - those who offer you a sharing of their life on the journey.

True friendship is a gift.

Forgive and ask forgiveness.

Be Humble and Be Thankful.

Be Beautiful and Be Pure.

Be Faith-filled and Be Catholic.

Be a Pioneer. [2]

Be who you already are - who you were created to be.

Bloom strong! [3]

I Love You…

Dad