by Servant Mind

Created on: June 02, 2008   Last Updated: June 08, 2008

Father's day is getting to be an awkward time of year for me. I'm pretty sure my dad has everything he could want. One year I was really stumped, right up until the week before. Then I spotted one of those model-sized motorcycles made of wood. I thought, "That would be perfect for his office." The problem was, he didn't have a particular love of motorcycles, and I was sure he had never owned one. Nevertheless, I purchased the bike in hopes that it's interesting design would add a certain flare to his workspace. To my surprise, he was elated with this unusual gift. It was far more creative than socks!

When I was in my twenties, I found an interesting gift for him at the Natural Wonders store. The Breezy Singers were small plastic birds (of varying breeds) that would chirp when rocked or touched. They were perfect for the patio, where a strong breeze could get them singing. He enjoyed the birds so much that I ended up getting him most of the set in the next few years. It became a tradition, and he actually looked forward to getting another one each Father's Day.

Last year, I was truly befuddled. As I sat in my room and thought about Father's day, my spirit was quickened to do something I had never done before. You see, my mother is an accomplished painter, and I always told her that some day I would like to take up painting as a hobby. But, with work and life always getting in the way, I often found myself with little time for hobbies.

I began to think about what it meant to be a father, and all the sacrifices my father had to make for our family. Then I remembered that it was during a time of great sacrifice that my father became ill. His kidneys had calcified and stopped functioning. He was forced to quit working, and had to suffer through dialysis for years and years! Just recently he received a new kidney. His health has since improved quite noticeably, and he is praising God with each new day.

As I thought about his ordeal, and how he met each day with a positive attitude and resolve, I began to envision a Father's Day gift that would commemorate his valor. That's when it hit me; I was to paint an award plaque for him. Mom had given me some supplies for painting (should I ever have the time), and I purchased the rest from a local art supply.

In my mind's eye, I pictured the highest medal given to fallen soldiers-The Purple Heart. I soon found a picture online, and began to sketch it out on canvas. Instead of the traditional George Washington relief, I decided

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