The strongest person I ever knew...

I almost didn't go to Dad's grave this year but it was just a fleeting moment and I knew I wanted to make the drive. I haven't missed for many years now. I could go to his grave anytime but I choose his birthday to spend the day remembering him. For me going to the Beaver Dam cemetery is a spiritual experience. I think of my Dad almost everyday and I really do miss him. It's been close to 32 years since he passed. That's a long time. 

I had bought some beautiful yellow Calla Lilies to put on Dad's grave but I forgot to put them in the car. I always trim the grass and clean up Dad's grave. I bring flags because he served in the Marines. I was feeling sad about the flowers when I had an idea. I used some water bottles that I had in the trunk and trimmed some branches off a nearby tree. I didn't think anyone would mind. I was happy with the way they turned out, simple but pretty.

Dad was a brick mason and rancher, both required great effort from sunup to sundown. He was caring, steady, dependable, and righteous. By that I mean he always tried to do the right thing.

I always thought my Dad was the strongest person I ever knew, that nothing could get him down. But there were times when he was disheartened and discouraged. That never lasted for very long and he never gave up.

He had a firm and unshakable testimony. He wanted to follow the Savior in all he did. He honored his parents and loved his family. It wasn't just his physical strength but also his spiritual strength that makes him the strongest person I ever knew.

On this his 98th birthday, I give thanks this day and always for a strong and Godly father.