The Mark of a Man

September 8, 2012

We celebrate Father’s Day simply because the father of my children is the most devoted father I know. To not acknowledge this – even on an over-commercialised day – would be remiss.

This year we had even more reason to stop and appreciate him. This year he has sacrificed himself for us more than any person should have to. He has endured pressure from all aspects of his life. He has braved mistreatment. And all because he cares deeply for his family. He puts us first.

So last Sunday – on Father’s Day – we walked together under a glorious Spring sun. We walked in rich green grass. And for awhile our heavy hearts were forgotten.

We celebrate a man of quiet dignity, humility and kindness. We celebrate a man who listens to his children, who holds them and plays with them. We celebrate a man who genuinely delights in being a father.

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{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }

Lydia La La September 8, 2012 at 8:44 am

What a loving tribute to your husband. It is so hard to earn a living and spend time being a Dad too. I hope all the troubles you seem to have just go away!!!
Kids look gorgeous too. You sure did a good job there! lol xo

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Deb September 9, 2012 at 6:33 am

Thank you Lydia. We have hope. x

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kirri September 8, 2012 at 8:59 am

I agree – such a loving tribute – for being a wonderful dad and hubby.

We all did a bush walk a couple of weeks ago – something we don’t do often enough. Every time I am reminded of the power and healing of nature x
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Deb September 9, 2012 at 6:35 am

Nature is so healing, isn’t it Kirri. A friend once said to me “Nature is the third parent” – so true. Would love to make a bumper sticker of that.

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Tez September 8, 2012 at 9:50 am

Deb,

This has touched me in a way that I barely understand. I never knew my father and my children’s father is a “good” father as long as it doesn’t cost him anything, emotionally or financially.To know there are fathers like your husband in the world, who put their families before themselves, makes my heart sing. Thank you for sharing him with us; so glad you had a wonderful day together.

Keep the bright and precious up like a shield so the bastards can’t grind you down. They never win in the end xxxx
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Deb September 9, 2012 at 6:37 am

Tez, thank you so much for your comment. It has really moved me. I did wonder about writing this one, but now I know it was worth it.

And thank you for the encouragement. x

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Lee September 8, 2012 at 10:29 pm

It makes me so sad that such a kind soul can be mistreated.
It makes me so happy that children in the world have an amazing, beautiful, fantastic father.
Your photos are so lovely and dreamy. xx
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Deb September 9, 2012 at 6:39 am

Yes, there’s sad and happy. Very thankful for the happy. Thank you, Lee xx

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Grace September 9, 2012 at 7:55 am

It sounds like he’s stayed strong and steady through a lot, Deb. And the whole time, his love for you guys was unwavering too. You’re very blessed, just as he is to have a beautiful familly. Breathtaking photos – love the backdrop of green, lush grass. xxx
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Deb September 9, 2012 at 2:13 pm

Yes Grace, he’s strong, steady and unwavering. Good words. I loved taking these photos. All that green and sunshine – it was perfect. :) xxx

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inkpaperpen September 9, 2012 at 9:20 am

celebrations are so important, they give us meaning, despite or maybe because of the heavy hearts. Your husband sounds like a rock.

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Deb September 9, 2012 at 2:15 pm

Gill, as I get older I’m realising the importance of celebrations and ritual even more. They truly enrich life. xx

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Sharon @ Funken Wagnel September 9, 2012 at 7:10 pm

He’s a lucky man:) I love that we get to celebrate these great men in our lives once a year
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Deb September 9, 2012 at 7:26 pm

Yes, indeed. And they even get a round of applause on their birthdays too. :)

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Carli September 11, 2012 at 11:55 am

From one wife of a husband who has had to brave mistreatment in the past for the sake of his family to another – hoping it gets easier for him (and you) soon x
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Deb September 12, 2012 at 4:04 pm

Oh thank you so much for your comment, Carli. It’s so lovely to know you understand – but sorry you had to go through it too. xx

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