For ALL children...

For those of you who have me on their Facebook, you have already read something similar to what I am about to post. I was asked if I would write it, or post it again. This post is for all children, young and old. If you have parents, as we all do, this is for you...

  In march of 2010, I lost my Mum .The following year in August, I had lost my Dad. Unlike so many children out there, I had my time to say I loved them, what they ment to me, and that I was truly sorry for what I had put them both through in the past. I thanked them both for everything they had gave me and my family, and for all they had taught me growing up. With my Mum, I had the honor of taking her one of her last meals, which she ate with us all, I got to have her tell me" oh Joseph Daniel behave" one last time. My dad, I got to see his warm smile and a good hearted giggle on last time. Yes, I was a lucky child indeed. The good book does not promise us tomorrow. And too many take that for granted. So for all the "children" out there, this is for you.

  As a parent, this I say to my children. Please honor what I say and ask of you. It is not done to be cruel or mean. Take the time to get to know the real me. Learn from what I say, and from what I do. I am just like you, I am human. I am not perfect, and do and will make mistakes every now and then. I want you to know, that as your dad, yes I am your best friend, but I have to be your parent first. I look out for all you do no matter what. I will try my best to keep you moving ahead in life, no matter when or where. I will love you no matter what. I will admit now that you may make me angry at time, and may hurt my feelings, but i love you no matter what. Know now that when I say no, it's not to hurt you or to be mean. I wish for you to understand that I too was young, that I have been there and done that. I know what is and is not a good idea.

Please learn all you can from me now, I may not be with you tomorrow. Laugh with me while times are good, and mourn with me when they are not. In my old age, hold my hand as I held yours as a child. Talk to me now, while I understand everything you say. Remember, I am always only a phone call or text away. We all are together under one roof now, but the day will come when you are grown and out on your own. Even as I write this now, I can't help to think that day is coming, and coming fast. I do hope I have taught you well, and that in your age and my age, you are able to say that you are proud to have me as your dad as I am of my children.

Our lives are short, and days move so fast. What I just wrote is what we all would love to say to our children. Like I said at the start, I was a very lucky child... Will you be

Big Man Out

Tank