Because of covid-19 I can't visit my Dad. He's in a great place with people who care. For people with extreme memory loss.
I love my Dad. He was a great Dad. At my games. Loved me. Pointed me to Jesus. (pic of Mom and Dad at Dylan's college graduation dance)
Yet we were distant during my teen and college years.
As a young adult of 28 wise years I confronted Dad with the content of our emotional inability to connect.
He told me stories of his early life challenge and dysfunction, leading to parental patterns.
I told him 'I understand you better. As son please understand me better.’
You graciously did. Remarkably so.
Dad (as adult parent - mark this - you are never done) overcame earlier life emotional transgressions not by naming and repenting of each, but by presence. Accepting, blessing, consistently-showing-up presence. Of Christ. To me. My wife. My boys.
This presence of Christ over all things is the most powerful thing anyone can speak over their family or friends, as you seek to give or receive blessing.
May you receive it for yourself, and extend it to others close to you, today.
