My father was in The US Airforce when I was born. According to my mother, he saw her picture as Miss San Leandro in the local newspaper and bet a friend he could get a date with her. Eight months later, I was born. As they were both kids themselves, his parents, very successful local business owners, basically raised me until my parents divorced when I was six. My mom then took us back to her hometown, Ashland, Wisconsin, where I went to middle school. I remember looking at a picture of Jesus hanging on my bedroom wall there and telling Him that He was my new father. I talked and prayed to Him before going to bed every single night. I still do.
In my twenties, I reunited with my dad. We became close friends until he died. After all, I was his carbon copy. He was a very talented, good-looking guy with an engaging personality. Some people may have resented an absentee father, but I forgave him a long time ago. It was all part of God's plan. It gave me empathy and made me stronger. I also believe our souls all know each other in Heaven and we make plans on how to love and support each other (all that truly matters in the end) down here in this school called Earth. One reason I am so passionate about genealogy is to honor his memory and our legacy. So, my beloved dad, up there in Heaven, I raise a cup of Irish Coffee to you and to all fathers on this sacred day!
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