Journal of Sacred Work

Here it is Father’s Day week-end and I am remembering how my parents were of a generation that did not openly express love. I do not recall we ever said “I love you” right out loud. I could write “Love Always” in a card but it seemed taboo to openly express those three little words even though our love was deep and true. Fortunately, my generation seems to have crossed that threshold and it easily flows from my lips to family with most every goodbye as well as with my close friends.

Interestingly, because it was foreign growing up to say I love you, it felt a little ackward at first with my adult siblings but that too has changed for us sisters. As we age,  my youngest brother has been speaking of his/our life’s impermanence. He told me with a sense of relief, “dad never said I love you until he was dying and then we both expressed out love for each other.” Then at the close of our last conversation my brother said, “You just never know, this could even be our last time we talk. So, it is good to say a little bit of an I love you” and we both shared in, “I love you.” Phew, we crossed that divide! Yeah!  

On Fathers’ Day we remember our dads and the importance they hold or have held in our lives. I remember fondly the mutual affection that my dad held for me, my mom and five siblings, his love of people and entertaining. Our home was the place where family and friends gathered in an atmosphere of generous hospitality and I recall those fun times with gratitude.  

 I reflect too on the three fathers who are a part of my life that I wish to celebrate today. My husband Woody and my sons Lee and John. Woody is the kind of person who is there for others, especially family. As a dental crown and bridge technician he had his own business and flexible work hours. He was the one picking up the kids as well as their friends from school and driving them to and fro. If you need help with an errand, or “can you go by the house and let the dog out”, baking scones, banana nut bread or his famous chocolate chip cookies for this event or that one, he is quick to respond. He has a kind heart,  humor and enjoys doing these genstures for the benefit of others as expressions of love. He also likes to take our dog, Chance to the dog park daily.  One phenomenon is how dogs just naturally gravitate towards Woody. They come over and sit by him and some jump up on his lap. Dogs of all kinds just love him and so do we.

My eldest son lives far from us, and as a single dad of three teenagers he has a lot on his shoulders. He has many innate gifts and hidden talents. He has always been a consistent calm and loving force in his children's lives, navigating the difficulties of life with a loving and gentle spirit.

My youngest son,  lovely wife Eunyoung and 18 mos. old baby girl live near to us and so we enjoy the blessings that comes with this new little one who is so inquisitive, and on the move exploring everything. She is so happy and joyful and it is so much fun to be a part of their lives. My son is smart and so thoughtful and I admire his initiative to create a great life by balancing responsibility and enjoying life.

Thinking of my family and you dear friends I just wish you to know that I love you!

Happy Father’s Day!

Liz Sorensen Wessel