Who is the good father?

Is he strong and wise and warrior like?

Or is he soft, and fun and affectionate?

Does he work long hours to provide?

Or does he coach little league?

Does he throw the football with you or does he teach you how to read?

Maybe it’s not really important what he does as much as who he is.

He is your father.

And he’s not afraid of that.

He stays. He works. He tries.

He doesn’t run away.

Because he loves you.

He gives up his life so that you can have your own.

No matter what.

He stays.

And he shows you the way.

He takes you to feed the ducks.

And fight the waves.

He is soft.

And he is strong.

He is good.

Fathers, boys made into men, we thank you for your lives.

We need you more than you know…

In memory of Ed Swift.

1957-2013