You Know What I Mean?

While driving with my dad on our way to play golf, sometime in May of 2004, he and I listened to one of his favorite tapes, John McDermott singing old sentimental Irish songs, Dad was a sucker for this type of music. Most people saw him as loud, aggressive and competitive but he definitely possessed a softer almost downright mushy side as well. Just before we reached our destination the song I have posted below played. When it ended I looked that over and saw his eyes had begun to well up. When we arrived at the golf course he said, "It's been over 30 years since my dad passed away and I still miss him. Do you think that’s strange?” I assured him that he was normal to feel that way and we got ready to play our round. I don’t remember anything about that round, I wish I could because as it turned out that was the last time he and I would play golf together. That summer he started not feeling well. Nothing serious it seemed,. just a low grade fever he couldn’t seem to sha...

I've played a number of roles in my life. I've been a son, a brother, a cousin and an uncle. I became husband and a dad. I've been a teacher, a pastor, a coach, and a salesman. I've been called friend, coworker, neighbor and some things I'd rather not mention. I'll admit there were times I felt overwhelmed by the expectations that came with all of these. The last thing I thought I wanted or needed was a new title.  Five years ago this morning I was given yet another role. On August 6th, 2010 I became Papa. Savannah Joyce Scherzer entered the world and changed my life. Within seconds of seeing her for the first time I couldn't imagine life without her. I didn't know what I'd been missing. This is why I love being Papa: Hearing her giggle uncontrollably at something silly I've said The sense of justice I feel when she gives her mother a difficult time Watching how her mother deals with her and realizing I must have done something r...