To Father

Today is your birthday.  I celebrated it in my heart and mind.  And in a few simple actions.

I started the day with prayer and then a wonderful scripture study.  You helped teach me the importance of consistency in these essential building blocks of life; never a day passing without them.

I went and talked to Dennille, even though it made me kind of sad, because you have always supported me completely in my efforts to follow the Spirit.  Your confidence in my ability to receive revelation strengthens me always.

Then I went walking (and a little running).  For so many reasons connected to you.  Your and Mother's example of consistent exercise encourages me (in fact, the Spirit uses it to prompt me to repent).  And because I appreciate the body that you helped create; thank you for partnering with God and Mother to give me this precious gift.

I went walking when I did to enjoy the gorgeous fall day.  It's warm and sunny and makes me heart happy to be out and enjoying it.  A perfect September day for my favorite September-born person.  I didn't get to hike for you--but I plan to tomorrow.  That's definitely a love you instilled in me.  I did stop and eat a warm, delicious little apple (but I threw away more than you would have, like the wormy part).

I came home and ate a yummy tomato sandwich, on homemade bread.  Bread like the bread you have made every few days for your family for many years now.  Like you, I've taken Mother's recipe and made it my own

Now I'm going to Skype you and tell you happy birthday.  (Skype, your new favorite toy.)  Because you're making a special effort to be available, like you have so often made an effort to be available to talk, to listen.

And then I'll go to work.  Even though I'd much rather spend the rest of the day in the glorious sunshine.  Because you taught me--through words a few times, but more from decades of example--the importance of working.  Of being diligent.  Not because work is fun or exciting, but because it's what we need to do (bonus if it is fun or exciting, but that's not why.)  So even if I really don't want to go, I will.  Because I've watched you gird up your loins and keep pressing on, even when you didn't want to be there.

And while I'm at work I'll do my best.  Because that will make you happy.  And during my breaks, I'll read a good book, just like you.  And I'll write in my journal; maybe someday someone will enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy reading yours.

And then I'll come home and I'll end the day how I started it, with prayer.  Thanking my Heavenly Father for a wonderful earthly father who gave me life, who loves my mother, who loves me, who has sacrificed all his life to take care of me and teach me.  Who makes me feel whole, loved, and supported every day of my life.

Happy Birthday, Father.