by Lisa Armano

Created on: June 16, 2008

A mother's love is forever, yet moment-to-moment. They tend to your every need, every tear, every runny nose, and every boo-boo. A father's love, however, is something so unique, so subtle, and sometimes can be missed. A father's love is there like a goal, waiting to be achieved - it's there for the long haul - something you may not notice until further down the road or until they are gone from sight.

That summer job mowing the lawn that you hated, the "bottom of the pocket" change that went into your piggy bank for a rainy day, being forced to sit in front of the TV to yell out the questions to Jeopardy - those were all his set-ups for the little problem that can be known as life. He was making sure you understood responsibility, that you could set long-term goals, and could think your way out of a paper bag (or win on a game show!). That was his way of preparing you for when he is gone.

There are so many fleeting moments in life that we often neglect to capture the ones that leave the longest impressions. I bet if you took a minute to look you would see that many of those that lasted the longest came from your father. Can you connect the dots? Can you see how those events growing up with dad has made you the responsible adult today? Can you forgive his errors (he's not a God, he's human after all), can you look past the embarrassments he caused you as a child; the mistakes you've held against him; the inadequacies you've chosen to let fester - and see the MAN, the father, who set you up for life?

Father's Day is a time to honor your father. Pay attention to him. Observe him. Do you know his favorite color, song or flower? Do you know the reason he does certain quirky things? What smells do you associate with him? What does he say that makes you laugh every time it's uttered? What mannerisms did you pick up from him that will always make you smile when you repeat them?

If you are fortunate enough to have your father here this year, make sure he knows that he's got your attention. Let him know that you're soaking up his wisdom and absorbing his light. Remember him while he is here. And if he is already gone, remember him NOW. Honor the man by letting him know he's appreciated. Tell him what he's done in your life that has allowed you to get this far. Tell him what he does that makes you smile when he's not around. You've only got one father. He's just a man, but he is a part of you and he has earned his day today.

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