Father’s Day

June 17, 2012

Today is Father’s Day and it’s been, what, eleven years since mine passed away. Weird to think about it, not the fact but just how much time has passed. I wonder what he would be like today, though the likely asnwer is “The same as he always was, dummy.” There have been a great many things that have happened in my life these past 10+ years, good and bad, and it would have been helpful to have had his council. He may not have lived the perfect life but he damn sure could listen to his son’s problems and provide feedback. Now, whether or not I actually heeded his advice is another thing altogether. My memories of dad have also changed over time, which they are bound to do. He was not a saint, by no stretch, but he was a good dad in the most important ways; listening, teaching, understanding, supporting, and on-and-on. That’s how I like remembering him and to be honest, any other “bad” memories I have of him don’t really matter. Maybe that’s the entire point of this post, is to say “Thanks, Dad. I count myself lucky to have had you in my life and miss you.” Those of you who do still have your father rummaging around in the garage, asking you to visit, offering their 2-cents and so-on, cherish these moments because they will end up being the good stuff you remember down the line. Happy Father’s Day, Joe Galloway. I will always love you.