My dad turns 70 today. Happy Birthday Dad! I wish I lived closer so we could go for lunch today and maybe take in a movie! X-Men! That would be fun....however, I don't live close enough. I was actually pondering this fact as I went for my walk last night along the lakefront. What is with this adventurous spirit that I have? Why would I even consider leaving everything and everyone we know and love to go to a country at the complete opposite side of the globe? I believe it is because of the gift you and mom gave me in encouraging me to follow my dreams no matter where they take me or whether anyone follows or not.
I was thinking back to being 18 years old. I was 2 months out of high school, boarding a plane to fly hundreds of miles from home to a place where I didn't know a single, solitary person to attend bible school for 6 months. What must you have been thinking about this independent daughter of yours? I was just off and running. Nothing was going to stop me. Not even the fact that I didn't know anyone.
Then 2 years later, boarding another plane to go spend a summer doing missions, again not going with anyone I knew, just off on my own. Not only that but after boot camp in the States, boarding the plane for Europe on crutches because I had reinjured my leg. But there was no way that I wasn't going! And you stood by me and encouraged me to go. You gave me freedom to explore this big wonderful world and follow the dreams God has placed in my heart.
And now the distinct possibility exists that after 18 years in one place, God is placing another adventure in our hearts. This time it's an adventure that I will get to experience with my husband and children. I can pass on to our kids the great gift you have given me, to follow my dreams wherever they may lead. To trust God that the tears of leaving will be wiped away with the joys of new discoveries.
Thanks Dad and Mom for the gift of adventure. The courage to step out and try something new. The desire to not accept the status quo. The faith to know that God is leading, guiding and with me at every step. The willingness to accept a risk.
This job opportunity may not come to pass, but just the fact that Kevin and I have been blessed with the freedom, courage, adventure and faith to pursue it blesses me and is a gift to pass on to our daughters.
Happy Birthday Dad! I love you both! Let's celebrate your 71st down under! hee hee
Comments
Are you guys thinking of moving to Australia?? AWESOME!!!!! Always wanted to go there!
Thanks for the lovely tribute, and yes there were some anxious moments but we praise the Lord for the way our children have grown and developed into gracious adults, with great wisdom, sensitivity and serving our God.
Your mother deserves the greater tribute as she had the sensitivity and foresight to help and guide you, and to release you into God's keeping. It wasn't always easy.
May god's guidance and blessings be with you always!
Love , Mom & Dad.
mother's ps.
When we saw you heading for Europe with a cast on, I almost rushed out to stop the plane. When you went to Capenwray alone, and the "Here Krishna's"stopped you to offer you some literature we were proud of the way you handled yourself. --- Then there was the call you made to us on a Saturday morning from Paris, you said hello and the line went dead, Dad had taken the call and knew it was you. I was sure you had been kidnapped. All day long I kept bugging dad; did she sound scared, or was she happy?, and he would say, " she only said hello", -- were we ever relieved later on in the day when your call did come through and we found out that you were OK.. Cheryl, your steadfast determination has stood you in good stead, and we are proud of you. Hang in there girl!