Cinco de Mayo

For most, Cinco de Mayo represents the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. (You knew that already, right?) But for me and my family the 5th of May was always the day we celebrated my dad's birthday. (I must admit that the regional Mexican holiday made remembering dad's birthday very easy. ) I think about Dad often, but even more around these special days.

So far this morning I've spent time thinking about him playing volleyball with me in our front yard (he strongly espoused the idea that to build a child's self esteem they should find something they enjoy and work hard at becoming good at it...he was always willing to help with the learning/practicing process), helping me with math problems at both home and school...hoping that if I continued to plead ignorance he would finish just one more, saying the offertory prayer at church, and (hardest of all) laying in the hospital bed at home being so brave for the rest of us.

It's been almost two years since Dad died, but his memory and legacy continue to be an ever present comfort to me. I see him in my brother's integrity and love of puns, my mom's continued ministry and steadfastness, my love for books and the way one eye squints when I smile, and even in my daughter's determination and boundless energy. I miss him, but I hold fast to the knowledge that God redeems all He allows.

Happy Birthday Dad.

Thank you Lord for giving me such a wonderful, earthly example of You.