Father, Daddy or Dad? That’s the question

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. 3 John 1:4

Sometimes events occur in our lives that define who we are and who we will become. But most times, it’s not until later – sometimes much later – we recognize these special moments as enduring lessons about life.

They are valuable guides that shape your character and thoughts.

For me it happened at a very young age: I was 10-years-old and in the fifth grade.

Christmas vacation had just passed, and we were all back in school. As most kids do, I showed my classmates what I received for gifts.

My most treasured was a green Boy Scout pocketknife with my initials and birth date etched on the ends by my dad. It had three blades and a can opener!

That last statement turned out to be the seed that was planted to produce a major change for my life although at that time, I did not comprehend how “major” it would be.

My dad saw the excitement in my behavior and gave me one of those “going to church” speeches, mainly not to lose it, keep it in your pocket and don’t take it to school.

Less than a week later, I came home after school and was changing clothes to go out and play with some of the neighborhood kids but when I began to empty my pants pockets, I discovered they were empty. NO KNIFE.

I panicked as I checked and re-checked my clothes but no knife. No use in sharing the angst and anxiety that a 10-year-old experienced when he casually disregarded his father’s direct instructions.

For more on this story please pick up Thursday’s Tribune or purchase an e-edition.