The greatness of the task, the sacredness of the responsibility may make some fathers feel inadequate, but good fathers simply stand up, do their best, and say to their families, through their words and actions, “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of you.” (Spoken Word (excerpt), Lloyd Newell, June 19, 2016)
Today's broadcast was in honor of fathers and the vital role they play within families and in society. While I enjoyed singing today and being a part of the overall experience, there weren't any deep or overwhelming emotions that surfaced as I thought about fathers and being one myself. To be honest, I'm just really grateful to be one. It's one of the greatest joys in life to see my children progress and succeed. It's humbling to have other parents come up to me or my wife and go on for two or three minutes about how great my children are. Yes, it's hard, too, to see them go through challenges, to cry, to get upset at life being unfair, to see them struggle and occasionally to see them fail. But it's heartwarming to see them get back up, to not give up, and to move forward.
Some nights as I pray to my Heavenly Father, I think back on the day and my interactions with my children. Did I give them enough encouragement? Did I compliment them on a job well done? Were they in need of some counsel and was I focused enough to give it to them? Was I engaged in conversation they were trying to have with me? Do they know they I love them? Sometimes the answers to these questions is "no," and I try to repent and do better. Other times the answers are yes and I couldn't be happier.
I want to thank my own dad for all he's done for me. As I've mentioned before, we were quite a distance apart growing up. But while we had relationship struggles, I always respected him and knew that the example he set for me was one I should follow. So I'm grateful for that, and grateful for the countless sacrifices he made for me both years ago, and still today.
We sang a song today called "My Father's Faith" by Janice Kapp Perry. While I sometimes struggle with songs like this (mainly because there are many children, and even adults, who can't say they have/had the "ideal" father), it's certainly a nice song and the video footage they included HERE brings a smile. (Here's the performance from today, though the link never lasts long).
Lastly, we're down to just one week before we embark to Europe! We have a pre-Tour Concert this coming Thursday night at 7:30 in the Tabernacle for all those who want to come. I can guarantee you'll like it. You may even love it. :)
Until next time, God be with you.
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