In thirty years, I never witnessed my dad hesitate to provide me the time, energy, or attention that I required—and I was a demanding kid. The reality was that my dad’s life demanded he carefully manage all three precious commodities. There was just something about his nature—namely the unconditional love and patience he afforded all of those he touched—that left us under the impression that he had almost limitless amounts of all three.
As much as I mourn the loss of my father, as much as I want badly to share future joys and frustrations with him, I am grateful that I had thirty years with him. He was a teacher, and I will be a lifelong student of his quiet example.