“I just don’t understand…
…how I can exist in a world in which my Father does not exist?� Response: “That is a something that never goes away and you never get used to.�
FATHERS DAY – PT. 1
The title and opening quotes were the ending two lines of Grey’s Anatomy last week. I never watch this show, but I was flicking through the channels and whammo. So.., I sat and watched the entire ending of this show unfold; in which one of the main character’s father had just died in a very touching family setting.  The family first had to decide to let the father die on his own because all of his organs had failed, and then all of them were around his bed for his last breath.
I will admit to an occasional tear and emotion during some films (like Rocky VI – haha!), but this one hit home for me. My father died in a similar way just a little over 4 years ago.  My father and I had a strange relationship; because, for one he was the source of a lot of my pain during my childhood and young adult years.  He knew that, and I knew that; and it took us years to work that out, but we eventually did. My father was not a good role model and was not a follower of Christ until about 2 years before he died; but I Loved him dearly.  It has been hard and when he left, I did wonder how I would “exist in a world in which my father does not exist?�
So…., what’s the point Rich? Father’s Day……
#1 - If you have a great father and a great relationship and all of life with him has been just outstanding; then honor that and him for those great years.  Cherish them all and make the most of each year with him because the end does eventually come – and sometimes quicker than we like.
#2 – If your father was like mine and he was not necessarily the best father in the world and maybe even the worst in your mind; then you should try your hardest to do at least one of two things, but preferably both.  First, forgive him. Secondly, if he is still around, work it out if you can.  Some things take years, some are fixed quickly. However, the forgiveness issue is key to your own personal happiness and possibly that of your father’s too.
#3 – If you do not know who your father is.  Again…, forgive him for being absent.  Secondly, face the issues that may have come about as a result of that head on. Life is too short to be carrying the ball and chain of unforgiveness and pain around forever. You will be so much better off in having done this.
The whole key to a good father/child relationship is exemplified by God in His dealing with us personally. He forgives us for all; yet…, we cannot forgive?? That’s a bit illogical – no?
So…, look to the Father above to help you forgive your father here on this earth.
I’ll follow up with PART II later - and discuss what spiritual application fell into my heart as I heard those closing lines of Grey’s Anatomy.
HAPPY FATHERS DAY to all you fathers out there!
For you single mothers out there – Thanks for being Mom and Dad!!  HAPPY DAY TO YOU TOO!
IHL,
Richie