Another week flies by and I'm not quite sure if I was awake as it happened. I guess this blog is my outlet to figure out what actually occurred and whether it really mattered or not. As we get older and our family circles continue to grow exponentially, I realize that I forget more birthdays than I remember. I do declare it a miracle that I actually remembered both Charlie's and my Dad's Birthdays this past week.
Our family has a tradition for Birthday celebrations. A delicious celebratory dinner is prepared by mom with the birthday boy or girl incharge of selecting the menu. (I am sure this is pretty typical of many familys.) But near the end of dinner, Dad motions to the family that it is time to take a moment and allow each member of the family to express their thoughts and feelings about the honored member of the family. I must admit that it can be uncomfortable when upon notification from dad that it is now my turn to share my feelings. I probably should prepare before these events knowing what is most certainly going to occur. Well this past week, we had two birthday dinners. Sunday the 7th was Charlies 17th birthday, and this last Sunday we celebrated Dad's birthday. Unfortunately, due to a strange rash that Clare developed, we elected to stay home and family pictures with Chrysi's family before Airety and Brian leave for Germany, we were unable to participate in the events.
So I feel that I have now had addequate time to prepare and would like to share my thoughts about my brother 10 years younger and the man I wish I could be more like, my Dad. I feel like time passes so quickly and if we waste the opportunities we are given we will forever regret it. As an older brother I have felt the burden of being the good example and the bar setter for my younger brothers. When they slip up or don't achieve the very best, I tend to take the blame for not being the best example and supportive brother I could have been. I know its not my fault, but I always ask myself if I am being the brother I should be. Could I make a better effort to attend a soccer game, cross country, swimming or water polo meet? Of course the answer is a resounding YES! But I have noticed something this year. I have some of the most accomplished and talented brothers who achieve and find success in almost every avenue they take. Charlie is one such example. I will forgive him for not continuing the running and soccer tradition and taking on swimming and water polo. Charlie is an amazing athlete and is one of the hardest workers I know. He has taken his education more seriously and has recognized the potential he has to be successful in everything he does with correctly applied effort. I am so excited for the doors of opportunity that are opening up to him because of his work ethic. Charlie is a great example and role model for me in my work and family life. I am so proud of him and greatful to be his brother. We love you Charlie!
Being a third generation Richard, I have the mantle of living up to the greatness my great uncle and father have given the name. Dad has always been and will continue to be the image of knowlege, love, security, hard work, and spirituality. Like most children, we view our parents as invincible and perfect people who we want emulate in every way. Although I realize that my father is neither invincible or perfect, I still desire to be like him in almost every way. Dad has always be available for me. As a soccer, basketball, baseball, and tee ball coach, Scoutmaster, Bishop, spectator, tutor, teacher, and cheerleader, Dad has always been invested in his families interests. As a man that works harder and probably just as long and as anyone else I know, he has always put aside his work to be actively involved in our lives. Dad has taught me a great lesson of how important a successful education is by his example and hard work. As a husband who does all of the laundry and ironing in the house and as a gardener extrodinaire, Dad has instilled a sense of responsibility that I have to be a better support to Chrysi and father to Clare. Dad, I love you and Happy Birthday!
