A lot of us will be celebrating Father’s Day a lot differently this year. Many of us won’t be visiting with our dads … maybe it’s because of COVID-19, or maybe he’s no longer with you, or there could be many reasons. Regardless, here are 3 ways you can honor your father from a distance if you can’t visit him and also 3 ways you can remember your father if he’s no longer with you.
It can be tough to be away from our parents during COVID-19, even if we know it’s for their benefit. Here are some ways you can honor your father from a distance:
1. Write 5 things you love about your father. Then call him and tell him. Talk with him about fun times you’ve had together and what his influence has meant to you in your life.
2. If possible, FaceTime with your father. There’s nothing like seeing a face. My son lives on the other side of the country, but when I can see his face, it makes me feel more “complete”.
3. Ask your father what he wants right now. It might be he just wants to see you outside his window. Or he might just want to FaceTime with you. Or … he might just want your time … time to talk on the phone and recall precious memories. Just ask. You might be surprised at the simple answer you receive.
Father’s Day tends to bring up sadness for some of us if we no longer have our fathers with us. Here are some ways you can remember your father:
1. Write 5 (or more) things you love about your father. This could be short and sweet … like traits you love about him, or you could spend more time and enjoy journaling about special times you spent together. Enjoy the sweet memories this brings up for you.
2. Share your thoughts about your father with a family member or friend. When my mother passed away, my sisters and I spent hours recalling stories of our parents and childhood. This was healing as well as bonding. Share your memories.
3. Plant a tree or flower in memory of your father … something that will remind you of him. Then each time you see it, remember something about your father that you are grateful for.
My dad has been gone for 31 years but Father’s Day brings up a bit of tenderness for me each year. This morning, I’ve been missing him, but I’ve also thought about all the things he gave me. I hit the jackpot with my dad … he was kind, compassionate, intelligent, and I loved the special times we spent together. He often joked that I was the son he never had (I was the youngest of 4 girls). We fished, we hunted for artifacts in the plowed fields of the farm, we’d sneak off to the back side of the farm around dusk and sit on the hood of the car while watching the sun set and the stars come out. I loved those special times with him.
I believe the world is a better place because of my father and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my Heavenly Father who is the best “dad” ever! I’m the luckiest gal in the world to have both in my life!
Let this Father’s day give you the opportunity to stop and remember, to be intentional, and to think of the good things life brings and the good things your father has woven into your life.
Happy Father’s Day!