INSPIRASUNS

Today is an anniversary. My dad passed away 24 years ago this morning. Actually, he passed away just down the street from where I reside now in SW Florida. I was fortunate to be holding my dad’s hand when he left this earth, and God blessed me that morning, knowing that Jesus accompanied him home.

My dad was an immigrant. He came to the USA at the age of 17. His parents put him on a ship to America, speaking not a word of English, and not knowing a soul here. They felt this was a better future for him than to be enlisted into Hitler’s army.

Not long after arriving, he secured a job on a cruise ship, learned how to speak English, and learned the hospitality trade. He became a citizen, enlisted in the Air Force, and spent 25 successful years using the skills he learned, managing the NCO clubs across the bases where he was stationed. He retired to SW Florida, again not far from where I live today.

My dad loved this country and everything it stands for. He loved to drive everywhere, do you know why? Because he could drive anywhere he wanted and didn’t have to tell anyone. No check points, no papers to show, no checking in when you got home. Those were the memories he had as a child.

My dad loved the Freedom and the opportunities this country provides to anyone willing to put in the effort. He understood that God gifted us with unalienable rights, Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Today as I remember my dad, I give thanks to Father. Thank you Lord for the gift of my dad. Thank you for his love of not only his family, but for the love of this country. Thank you for giving me the time I had with him. Thank you Lord for blessing me with traits he instilled in me. Thank you Lord for knowing that when my time here on this earth is finished, I will see him again.

Until that time comes, I will honor not just my dad, but I will honor Our Father. I will continue to do my best at showing his heavenly love to everyone I can. And…I will continue to love this country as much as my dad. We are blessed, we all need to remember and give thanks. I hope this song will start your morning with a reminder of just how blessed we are here in America.