Today would have been my father’s 89th birthday. It doesn’t matter how many years pass, I miss him almost daily.
As it happens, this morning finds me in Laguna Niguel, I am here because I was invited by the YWCA to share my story at their annual conference for executives. Needless to say it is an honor to have been asked and on a lot of levels I look forward to this morning’s event.
When I woke up though the first thing I thought of was my dad. I can imagine the conversation we would have if I could call him. He was always enthusiastic about anything that his kids or grand kids were doing.
“Isn’t that just nifty that the YWCA has invited you to share your story! Lucky them!”
Lucky them. I chuckle as I think about his perspective, an undying confidence that whatever I had to offer would be great.
Alone in my hotel room where the ocean is stair steps away I think about the sort of confidence it takes to take the stage, open up your heart and share. Of course there are always nerves to wrangle in the first few moments, yet usually once I begin a sense of calm tends to take over. I am certain that part of that ease comes from having been raised with love.
Attitudes are infectious. I am eternally grateful that I had a father whose utter awe over everything he experienced was expressed.
I know I need to get ready… I have to shower, dress in something other than my jeans, review my notes and step into a mind set that will allow me to address a group that promises to be far in excess of 100. The word lucky is turning over in my mind…is it luck that I am alive today to share my story? As much as my dad loved the word, I really do not believe it is.
The love and support I have been given in my life time was given with intention. Today I am grateful for the countless people that have been by my side. And in particular this morning, I am reminded that the dad I had was such a gift.
Happy birthday Dad, I am quite convinced that if is at all possible you will be in the room today as I take the podium–an audience of one, cheering me on. And I find that alone is the fuel I need to walk through my day.
You are the best Ms Stebbins! I love that… and you… xoxooxB.
Ah…Ms. Boardman what a lovely surprise to find your comment. Thank you and i love you back! xoxo
Oh Elin you touch my heart. Of course he is there standing in awe of you. I love this. Well done.
Kim, I appreciate your being here so much. Thank you.
What a beautiful moment to connect with your dad on his birthday, and how generous of you to share it with us. I hope your presentation went well, and that you and the entire audience felt your dad’s infectious enthusiasm.
Thank you Mary, it was a fabulous event. The audience was smaller than I had anticipated which always makes for a more intimate setting, we all had a wonderful time.
Beautiful, Elin. Your dad sounds like he was an amazing man. Yes, he was there with you but he was definitely not an audience of one cheering you on — you have so many other “fans” always with you, including me. xoxo
You would have loved my dad Lois, he was so the best. love you too my friend. xoxo
“The love and support I have been given in my life time was given with intention. Today I am grateful for the countless people that have been by my side. And in particular this morning, I am reminded that the dad I had was such a gift.”
Love that so much! I think the love you’ve been surrounded by shows through in your writing and generous spirit.
Thank you…very appreciated.
What an amazing source of strength. I would quote the same passage Jen did. I’m choked up a bit thinking of loved ones no longer here but I know would be my small audience as well. Brilliant and beautiful, as always. Much love to you, my dear friend! xoxo
Ah thank you. And I hear you, to use one of my mother’s expression: “I feel my old trouble coming on….” whenever I think of the loved ones that are no longer here. Love to you back. 🙂