There have been many people who have made positive impacts on my life. It would be hard to put into words the feelings of love and gratitude that I feel for these people. My life has ,at times, been less than memorable. But I have been incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by some of the most wonderful people during these times. I can say that if it had not been for my family and friends I would have been a far different person today.
I would like to talk a little about Mason and Polly Smith. My Aunt and Uncle.They took me into their home at a time when I had wore my welcome out at my own.. They taught me that everything did not have to be a fight. They showed me how to love when it was not earned. They also showed me that a little hard work does not hurt. I can never express how much these two people mean to me. I love them dearly.
Charlie and Linda Baughman also showed me kindness,even when I did not deserve it. They also had a great impact on my life. I would not be in the position I am now if it had not been for Charlie. Charlie is my cousin but also one of my greatest friends.
There is something else I would like to say about Mason and Polly and Charlie. These are some of the very few christians that I have know that truly live their lives according to the Bible. I will always admire them for that even though I dont agree with them.
The person I am writing this blog about though is aomeone who has had the most impact on my life. My one hero. My Dad. He has always been my rock throughout my whole life. I have always known that I can depend on him fully. I can trust him fully.There has never been a doubt that he would not be there for me, not even a second.
I know of no other person as selfless as my father. He has ALWAYS put the needs of his family before himself. He spent many years working ,not to get himself things but to provide for his,most of the time unappreciative ,family. I cannnot remember many things he has had just for himself. He ALWAYS put his life on hold for his family and continues to do so.
My dad tought me many lessons, most by EXAMPLE. HE taught me to be kind to people reguardless of their income or who their family is. He taught me that we were no better than those less fortunate or less educated.He treats everyone the same. He is not arrogant toward anyone. He taught me to give freely.He still teaches me the value of doing for others freely even through opposition. He shows me the value of being patient, every day.
My father is honest in who he is. He dosnt act one way around one group of people and different around another group. He is who he is no matter where he is. I dont know of anyone who does not like my father. I wish that I would have shown my father the respect and appreciation he deserved when I was a youth,but the young never do. I can promise you one thing I will from here on out.
Let me also say something about my mother. Ours has been a rocky relationship. But in the last few years we have grown very close. We are able to talk and laugh and communicate. This is so very special to me. I cherish every moment with her. She has been wonderful to Zane,who thinks his grandma is an angle. She has done and conitnues to do so much for me and the kids. Although my recent de-conversion to atheism has tested this relatiopnship we are fine. What kind of man would I be if I did not stand for what I believe or dont believe. My mother is very special and very important to me. I love her with all of my heart.
