FATHER'S DAY

On this Father's Day, I am thinking about

My father, a man who lived his life with kindness and laughter, who taught me to be responsible, and who loved chicken, popcorn, and ice cream.

Kitty's father, who was so important to all his grandchildren, and who loved the water (and ice cream).

Walt, Christina's husband, who actually loves his kids more than the dogs or the goats, who always has a mound of projects to work on, and who has a sweet tooth but won't eat ice cream when it's too hot outside.

Michael, Jessie's husband, who left us far too early, and Jessie, who is now both father and mother to her two girls.

And so many other fathers I have known -- some still with us, some not.  All those who have been there -- sometimes befuddled, sometimes wise -- for their children, I salute you.  And those who are unthinking, cruel, selfish, those who brutalize, terrify and abuse their children, those who shirk their responsibilities, I have only pity -- you are missing one of the greatest joys life has to offer.

And on this day, I am thinking about the lost, lonely, frightened and hurt children.  I hope that somehow, someway, you are able to overcome this and find love, laughter, and safety in your lives