A Tribute To My Father

By Erin Schlegel

Sometimes, we take for granted all that our fathers have done and still are doing for us. But, through out all, Dads are more than willing to help, guide, and make sacrifices for those whom they care about and are always there for their children.

I could never even begin to thank my own father for all he has given me. He has shown me the world and tried to prepare for it in every way he knows how. He tries to prevent me from making the same mistakes he has and shields me from all pain or harm he can within his power. He attempts to listen to me, respecting my decisions while offering the strength and wisdom of his own. He has given me the important gift of a work ethic and has helped me shape my values and beliefs; showing me who I am and all the choices I have of who I can be.

A father is always there as a hand to hold when you are weak, or a pedestal to lift you up when you are strong. He is the shoulder you can cry on or the one who will rejoice with you in all your glory. A real father is patient and forgiving, a good listener and a role model of all we could achieve and accomplish. A true father stands by you, no matter what toil, tears, or torment you are put through – your dad becomes your entire cheering section when everyone else turns away and becomes silent.

I think my dad meets all of this criteria. After all, if it had not been for him, I would not have the father I now have to describe and depend on. He has meant a great deal to me throughout my life – and I know that he will continue guiding and giving me all that he can.

Every father makes a good deal of sacrifices throughout his lifetime – but probably the greatest ones are made for his child. Time after time he must learn to let go – to let his child fly free and find their own destiny. He winces with pain as the freedom his loved one has so much desired hurts them as they blindly find their way. He offers his strength and anything he can give – even if this child refuses repeatedly to accept his help. Through it all, he is there. He sees a childhood vanish before his eyes and sees and adulthood begin. The world that had once seemed so vast to them and the future so far away have now grown to vision and entered into life. He watches his child grow up and hopes that they may one day find themselves and happiness.

I wouldn’t be who I am today if it hadn’t been for my dad. Words can never describe all the appreciation I feel or how grateful I am for having him as a parent. So, on this Father’s Day I would like to thank my father and all fathers everywhere for the strength, love, wisdom, and support they have given their children.

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