A special Father's day "Who am I"

This is #2 in the series inspired by Coach Wade called "Who am I"

On this Father's Day, I'd like to share the three greatest lessons my dad taught me without even speaking a word. My dad was an auto mechanic for a bread company, and he worked by the sweat of his brow. This demanding job can take its toll on you both physically and mentally.  When these trucks broke down, it might be the hottest day of summer or the coldest day of winter.  Those drivers were so relieved when they saw Ole’Red (his nickname) coming to their rescue.  The lessons are listed below.

Lesson #1, Work hard-  He was a mechanic by day, drove a truck by night and pumped gas on the weekends. I only recall ONE DAY in my life when my father didn’t go to work. He was so physically sick that he couldn't get out of bed. He took great pride in his ability to show up and own it every day. He knew he had a responsibility to his family, co-workers, and himself.

Lesson #2 Never complain- He never complained about his job. He was a Magical MacGyver Grease-Monkey.  He’d use pantyhose for fan belts or whatever it took to get that broken-down truck back to the shop.  He never talked about how unfair his job was or how he was underpaid and overworked.  He never talked about how “The Man” was trying to hold him down.  He chose his profession, and he never blamed anyone for his lot in life. He was content but never complacent.  

Lesson #3 Dream big dreams-  He dreamed about building a 2-car garage in the back yard.  He would tell me where it would be located and what it looked like.  He would talk about the equipment he’d have and the lifts etc… His dream was so vivid, I could see that garage then, and I can still see it today in my mind. 

Matthew 3 16-17. 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

At this point in Jesus ministry, he had not performed a single miracle and, to my knowledge, had nothing of significance on his resume. GOD loved him for who he was and not what he could or would eventually do. Great lesson for us as fathers. Love your children unconditionally. GOD bless you and have a great day.