A Fathers’ Day message to military dads serving overseas

Hey Dad. your kids are very proud you’re serving Uncle Sam,
but they sure do miss you since you’re far from home.
They are worried for your safety and they ask the Lord each night
to protect you when you’re frightened and alone.

Hey Dad, your son is certain what he wants to be someday.
There’s just one thing that he really wants to do.
While standing soldier-straight he gives a miniature salute
and says one day he wants to be like you.

Hey Dad, I heard your daughter brag about you to her friends
while primping at the mirror combing curls.
She says you call her princess and that you’re her handsome prince
even though she knows she’s daddy’s little girl.

Hey Dad, your wife is counting days until you will be home,
She can’t find the words to say how much you’re missed,
You’re her hero plain and simple and that’s what she tells your kids
as she tucks them into bed with one last kiss.

Hey Dad, you’re being thought about a lot this Fathers’ Day.
No one else can fill your shoes or take your place.
You are loved by God in Heaven and by family here on earth
as you go about your duties at your base.

Instructions for caretakers

When digging ’round the family tree
don’t be suprised at what you see.
Some unmarked graves and skeletons
are there to be unearthed.

You’ll find some things that make you sad
and other things that make you mad.
But in the shade of that old tree
you’ll also find some gems.

The soil’s rich. The roots go deep
and what is there will make you weep.
Both tears of pain and gratitude
just knowing you belong.

So tend the tree that bears your name
and guard it from all blight and shame.
The fruit it bears in years to come
may well depend on you.

* For the past week I have had the privilege of hosting Norwegian relatives on their first visit to America. Sharing photos and telling stories have been informative and inspirational. My appreciation for my ancestral roots in Scandinavia has been deepened by their visit. I’m reminded of the television series called “Who Do You Think You Are?” on Friday evenings on NBC. Well worth watching!