Forever my Hero

Yesterday marked one week of marriage for Ben and me. We spent today and yesterday lugging our wedding gifts into our apartment and finding homes for all the wonderful things we received. The wedding and honeymoon are over, we’ve gone back to work, and all the gifts are put away. We’ve spent so long planning a wedding and preparing for marriage, and now that all the craziness is over we can finally get to living; to figuring out how to make our marriage a godly one—a projection of the love Christ has for his church. And thanks to one very special man I can say with confidence that Ben and I are going to make it. Through the trials, hardships, and heartbreaks. Through the smiles, laughter, and joy. We’re going to make this work because we’ve had stellar role models in our life—role models like my dad.

In the weeks leading up to the wedding I would tear up at the thought of my dad walking me down the aisle. We’ve got a special relationship built on years of running together—we’ve had quite a few adventures during the miles we’ve logged together. My heart smiles when I think back to all the cross country and track meets that my dad came to. Regardless of the weather, he was there. Rain, wind, snow, heat—he was there for 99.99% of my meets. His voice would ring out from across the stadium and courses, and I could always hear the sheer joy in his voice as he coached me through countless races. What a privilege to have such an amazing support system in my life—and not just in running. Though neither of my parents were exactly thrilled at my decision to major in social work instead of English, they supported me. And when I finished my manuscript and looked to my dad for advice, his was to simply go for it. The cost was considered, of course, but in the end even though the cost was high he still urged me to go for it. As my book project has taken off he’s given sound advice and pushed my book harder than anyone else. So not only is he a coach, role model, and support system, he is my marketing partner (along with Ben of course J ) and promoter.

When I think back on all my dad has done for me, it is overwhelming. Most little girls will say that their daddy is their hero, but I still hold on to that. My dad is my hero. He is one of my best friends. I feel so beyond blessed that eight days ago he was there to walk me down the aisle. One of my most fond memories of my wedding day is the moment my dad saw me for the first time in my dress with my hair and makeup all done—it was a very emotional moment for us, but its sweet tenderness will never leave me. It took a lot for him to let go, but I thank him for doing so, because four and a half years ago I found someone I wanted to spend forever with—someone who reminds me so much of my dad its kinda scary. When he let gave me up to Ben, his role of provider may have changed. But his role as hero, friend, and supporter will never leave. And for that I am eternally grateful.

I love you, dad.