A GREAT MAN

Yesterday, we celebrated the birth of a great man in history; he is a man whom few know much about. That is usually the case, that the truly great men are little known. They do not seem to mind. But if there were more of this type of man in our world, what a difference it would make. In fact, it would change the world. This particular man is a man with great vision, a man of humility, a leader, a calm, patient and kind man, one who's convictions run deep, but his love runs deeper. He is not a reactionary man; he thinks before he speaks. And when he speaks, what he says is important. He is optimistic when things around him are discouraging. He smiles at the future, even when it is uncertain, because of his unrelenting faith in a God Who keeps His promises. He loves his wife and children and is committed to them in ways that few could ever understand. I wish every man could spend time with this man - to learn his ways and follow his heart. Yes, his heart - it is the greatest part about this man. It is full of wisdom and understanding that come through in every day life situations. He does not push himself on anyone and does not ever feel he must be the center of attention. He does not give up; he assumes the best about people; he looks out for the interests of others more than his own. He is truly an amazing person. He is my husband of almost 30 years and the father of all eight of my incredible children. He never pushes them to be what he wants them to be, but he is always there for whatever they are doing.  We may only have one daughter, but he dances with her as well. 

He is now not only dad, but G-daddy, a very significant player in the life of three little grandsons and all of those grandchildren to come. I pray that his children and grandchildren grow up to imitate the heart of "this great man." (He always had a little song he would hum to get them to go to sleep - he still sings it)

One son wrote....

"Hey Dad...I want to tell you that I love you and that I consider it a joy to have grown up under your fathering. I still remember when you would sing and pray with us before we went to bed. Those types  of things laid a foundation of love and care that has made me who I am. You have always demonstrated what it means to be a man of integrity, servant, father, hard worker, thinker, and teacher. Those things are what is central to biblical masculinity. Happy birthday! Know that I love you and am looking forward to growing even closer to you as I enter these next stages of my life."

Happy Birthday Bob and dad - at the end of the day I told him that I was so grateful that on this day in history, God chose to make such a great man...one about whom a book may never be written, but one who has changed our world. Your smile is a blessing to us - we love you - Joy, kids, and grandchildren!