Spring

Memories have a way of creeping into your mind almost unbidden. Having mentioned the hum-bug the other day I was reminded today of how many of my notions are a product of my mom and dad. I can remember so many things from our childhood; places, houses, different schools and in all of them, my folks are there. Some of the memories are truly happy ones. But I do remember many of the spankings I got too. (And just for the record I believe I deserved every one of them)I guess I learned something from them.

One memory that I had this morning was of the smaller house we lived in that backed up to a creek in Morrilton Arkansas. That was the house where our small dog, Chillibean was run over, where I met my childhood best friend, Stevie and this memory came from. I remember Dad standing at the mirror in the small bathroom shaving and whistling as he prepared to take my mom out for the evening. I don’t know where they were going. I just remember the happiness I felt as I knew they were happy. Sue and I were talking last night and she thanked me for being such a good dad. Well I am what I am because I had a good dad. In many small ways I learned to express love for my wife by watching him love my mom. Although he was not really very expressive, nonetheless the love was there.

On top of the good example that my dad gave me is my understanding from my heavenly Father of just how I am supposed to love my wife. I truly enjoy following both of their examples. I enjoy taking Sue out, giving her my undivided attention. It can be just going for a walk and holding hands. It can be flying a kite as we did last week. The sound of her laughter still fills my ears. It can be honoring her in my thoughts and actions.

Awe, memories! How sweet they can be.