December 2nd - What I wanted from dad came from . . .

The story...

I'm told that my motives for much of what I've done, and thought, came from a desire to please, or even be like, my father.   I discovered that this was at least partially true after my dad passed away.  For example, I discovered I no longer had a desire to fish.   Fishing seemed purposeless without sharing the "best" experiences with my dad.  He seemed to like hearing those stories and freely express positive emotions directed toward me.  Yes, the fishing and story telling were part of my ongoing search for his love and approval.  In truth,  people weren't capable of fully meeting my needs.  I even bought this shirt mainly because it looked like one I remembered him wearing - I didn't wear it..

Like many, I've enjoyed much of Bruce Springsteen's music since my college years.  His songs resonated with some life experiences - deep down in my soul I felt his albums "Born to Run" and "Nebraska."  I was surprised to hear that much of what he did was an effort to be like his dad and to win his approval.  You can hear the music, drama, and story worked out in his Netflix NYC play "Springsteen on Broadway."  He tried to return to his roots but it wasn't the same.

My dad was my first idea of who God must be like.  Sadly, he was merely a good man with strengths and weaknesses.   I was discouraged when I discovered his flaws and didn't receive the love and acceptance that I longed for.  Did I deserve his love?  I was placing my hopes in the wrong place.  I am thankful for the other people who introduced me to my Lord and Savior - Jesus the Christ.  I am so... thankful that people in Christ worked out their love by sharing their faith and hope in our Father our Creator.

Come to the only church in town and learn about the Way.  If you know the Way, then might you share the reality of your Father in Christ with those who are lost?

Just for today...

"I was setting goals that others wanted me to achieve . . . My decisions were based on what others wanted so I could make them love and accept me . . . I thought if I said and did everything my parents wished, I would finally earn their love and attention."  Hope for Today (p. 337)

"Not one thing has ever improved as a result of my mental criticism. All it does is keep my mind on someone other than me . . . What would happen if I took my list of criticisms and applied it, gently, to myself?" Courage to Change (p. 337)

"Dad knew; He had - Acted like; Needed him."
"Disillusion fell; Looked out - God loved; Christ saved."   Am I a Poet?