From an early age, we have an innate desire to believe in heroes. Whether it’s Prince Charming or Superman we look for the one for which nothing is impossible. Walk with me and search through your memories. What do you see?
My Papi – always there to encourage me to be brave.
I remember Papi – he could do no wrong in my eyes. Bigger than life, I held him to a very high standard. He taught me about integrity, honor, respect and love. I was his little girl, he would always be there for me. “Be brave” he would say. “Be a big girl.”
I watch my grandson Adam, soon to be 9 years old, trailing after his Dada, learning all about nature, tools, problem solving and especially the love for family. Words like “Let’s Rock’n Roll!” I know for sure were handed down to him through two generations.
My Grandpa Paul can fix anything!
Grandpa Paul has been there for him since the beginning, teaching him about order and respect. As a toddler he soon learned to say “Fix it Grandpa”. He once boasted “Grandpa can fix anything!”.
We grow up. Life shows up to challenge our beliefs. Suddenly we realize that our Dad can’t do everything and certainly can’t protect us from all that life throws at us. The tug-o-war begins in our heart, battling between admiration and disappointment, we struggle to find that sense of security that we once had.
We discover the generation gap. Our circle of influence expands and our Papi doesn’t seem to fit in + doesn’t even want to fit in. My little girl inside still wants to make him proud, but he doesn’t understand the things that matter to me anymore. His world remained the same. Mine changed.
It was in that lonely place – the end of myself – that I met my Heavenly Father. My beliefs expanded to try to grasp this unconditional love – this amazing Grace. He loved me so much that He sent His son Jesus to pay for my sins so that I would be guaranteed a place in Heaven for all eternity. My choice. My true security.
Some of us have not known a father’s love or we’ve been disappointed by the father we did have. Wherever you are on this Father’s Day, I encourage you to look to our Father in Heaven. The One who can change your circumstance, your perspective. When you do, one day you will notice that joy, peace, love and acceptance have replaced disappointment. Gratitude washes over you as you begin to see with a new set of eyes.
Years ago I began to see things differently. I suddenly realized: Dad doesn’t have to “get me”; it matters more that he “love me” according to his generation’s expression of love.
It is You who made the Heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You. Jer 32:17 NRSV
Sometimes a slight change in perspective can make all the difference in healing a relationship. What do you need to SEE today? Remember, our God can fix anything!
Maggie Sabatier-Smith
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