Father's Day 2023

I'm sure I speak for others who have lost their fathers that not a day goes by without a wish to have our dads and their guidance with us once more. How fortunate we were to have such beacons in our lives. And how fortunate are those who still have their fathers in their lives.

Graduate                                      Class of 1925

His mom and dad were the son and daughter of first generation immigrants from Germany and Wales. He graduated from high school in the midst of the Roaring Twenties, went to work to support his aging parents and married the love of his life in the midst of the Great Depression. He was an entrepreneur at heart who owned a successful business by the early '50's. but left his hometown for better opportunities in hospitality management. It was a field he loved dearly because of his commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction and the fact he never met a stranger.

By example he demonstrated the value of a strong faith, a sound and loving marriage, a remarkable work ethic, constructive civic engagement, humor and wit, and a love of country. He also taught me the value of being an independent and critical thinker, of staying curious, and practicing life-long learning.

Gettysburg National Military Park                                     1954

Though he never lived to see his three grandchildren his values were a constant presence in teaching them to be responsible, caring, and loving adults. Such continuity across the generations is essential if we are to have community and commonwealth in these and future times. And given these times how wonderful it would be to see the reverence and respect for fatherhood restored in our nation today.

That said, I'll end with this wish: Happy Father's Day and a big "Thank You" to you Dad, and to dads everywhere.