2011 Letters to Dad

Happy Father's Day!

My father, the kindest and most hardworking man I have ever known. He is the light in our family, the warm and loving voice of reason and the wholesome and always giving knight in shining armor. He is also in every way the very reason why I am who I am and why I do what I do. He has inspired me my entire life to be kind to others and to honor nature. And that is exactly how I live my life, with joyful nature.

You see, growing up my dad would encourage me to do a lot of things, including writing. He told me that one day I could make hallmark cards just because of how touching my cards were to him. What he didn’t realize is that it wasn’t something I could do for just anyone; the words were influenced by his unconditional love. He would also encourage me against all odds to pursue everything that has ever interested me. He was the first person to introduce me to nature and for that I am so thankful. We used to drive out in to the woods, my sister Laura and Dad and I, I suppose just to get away but also to go nature exploring. We lived in Homosassa at this particular time and every chance we got he took us camping or on hikes through nature trails. One of the fondest memories that I have are of my dad and I diving to the bottom of Hospital Hole, a spring system in Crystal River. We alternated the usage of the handheld oxygen tank and went down, in awe, of the most beautiful spring I have ever seen. Still to this day, that is one of my favorite springs to visit as it not only brings back fond memories but it also inspired me to continue advocating for wild Florida. I appreciate this part of my childhood with him because it shaped who I am as a woman. I walk through nature with such admiration and I believe whole heartedly that my dad wanted that for me. Although I do not have kids of my own I live to see kids light up in nature, to be inspired in their own ways to celebrate nature for all of its intrinsic values.

Now, in my adult life, I still seek my dad’s advice and I live to enjoy his laughter. I respect him thoroughly as he has worked his entire life to support his family, to make a life for all of us that we could truly enjoy. Anytime my dad shares his laughter it is contagious, it bellows and brings smiles to those around him. He is charismatic and although all of my guy friends were scared of him growing up, he is a gentle giant.

So, this Father’s Day, I wanted to share just some of the things that I love so dearly about the greatest man in my life. I also wanted to give thanks for all the love, laughter and strength he has given me. The very thought of my father brings such pride and today is the perfect day to thank him for it. So dad, Happy Father’s Day! Thanks you for being my inspiration and my support. I love you with all of my heart!!

Love,

Sunshine (Jamie McWade)

*****

Happy Father's Day Jim, 

Over the years, the transformation of step-father to father has become apparent. During my pre-teen years I didn't know what to expect, but you took me under your wing and taught me everything I needed to know: honesty, work ethic, strength, the importance of education and independence. You taught me how to drive when I was 15, gave me a congrats when I earned my permit and driver's license. You came to as many volleyball games as possible and cheered along with mom when I was in high school. You helped me move into my college dorm and then into my first apartment. You've been there for a lot of "firsts" in my life.

Most of all, you believed in me, supported me and stood by me 100%. Today, you continue to push me, to strive for the best and to reach for my goals. You encourage me to put in the hard work and assure me that the results will turn out as they should. I no longer introduce you as Jim, my step-dad or step-father, rather I introduce you as Dad. A title that has taken years of patience, persistence and parenting.

Happy Father's Day! And thank you for all you've done!

Cherlene (Cherlene Willis)

*****

Dear Dad,

            Thank you for always being there for me my entire life. You helped mold me into the man I am today with your good advice and by always pointing me in the right direction. Thank you for working hard to be a great provider while I was growing up and still able to help raise Angela, Sonya, and me. You have been an awesome parent and teacher and I am lucky to be able to call you Dad.

-Robert Jr. (Robert Willis)