by Annette Maraist

Created on: May 20, 2009   Last Updated: May 21, 2009

Father's Day is coming up, and I want to share with you the generous life my dad gave to his family. We are not a typical family nowadays- I am the oldest of eleven children. My parents were married for 48 years.

My dad was a pediatrician- he always loved children. He could have opted to have a couple of kids, and buy himself fancy extras- a brand-new sports car; a huge home; an olympic-sized swimming pool.

Instead, he chose to give life to eleven children, and do without the fancy trappings of a doctor's life.

My dad chose to give to us yearly trips to Disney World. To this day, certain things I hear and smell sharply bring back happy memories. The cheerful singing of the birds takes me back to a quiet corner where we would rest in between rides- the fragrance of gardenias always makes me think of the gardens of the Polynesian Village.

He chose to give to us summers in Vero Beach. Awakening to the sounds of the ocean waves crashing- walking down the peaceful main street to have breakfast.

He was a quiet, strong man who loved to laugh. Laugh at a television show, at us, at his own silliness- until the tears rolled down his face. And when you heard that laugh, you could not help but laugh along with him. It was contagious.

He showed us how to laugh, how to have fun, how to enjoy life. He also showed us how to be spiritual- how to have faith.

Dad taught us the pride and value of earning honest money- of working toward your goals.

My dad made sure we had good educations. When I was attending the private high school where I was for four years, I did not recognize the value of it. Now, looking back, I am grateful for the backbone and security this school provided me with.

Dad was 100% Cajun- from the bayou country in Louisianna. He was proud of his Cajun heritage, and he passed that pride on to me.

My dad's young patients loved him, too. They responded to his gentle hands and quiet ways.

Did you know that roses are the official flower for Father's Day- red for those fathers still living, white for those who have passed on.

In 1909 Sonora Smart invented Father's Day to show her gratitude to her dad for the care he gave to her and her siblings after her mother passed on.

Father's Day is June 21. Think about the amazing role of a father. What a powerful, trust-worty role that is. Especially in these troubled times we need to remember the tremendous value of a good father. These fathers are guiding the next generation. The learned behaviours of society do begin at home. Compassion, sensitivity, and respect are learned at home- from fathers and mothers.

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